08. January 2026
Nigerias Oil And Gas Sector Gains Enhanced Security With Cutting-Edge Vtol Drone Contracts
The Nigerian oil and gas industry has long been a critical component of the country’s economic prosperity. However, with its rich natural resources comes a significant amount of risk, particularly when it comes to security. In recent years, various security threats have emerged, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and sabotage, which have had devastating consequences for the industry and the nation as a whole.
To address these security concerns, Tantita Security Services, a highly respected and capable security solutions provider in Nigeria, has partnered with Arco Worldwide Services (AWS), a Nigerian uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) Solutions provider. This partnership is backed by a contract awarded to Textron Systems Corporation, a leading global company that specializes in the development of innovative defense and aerospace products.
The contract involves the delivery of three Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) UAS systems to Tantita Security Services. These aircraft will be equipped with a fully International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)-free configuration, designed for ease of export to international customers. This move is significant, as it underscores the growing importance of UAS technology in supporting security operations around the world.
The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS is a mature, highly reliable, and industry-proven autonomous solution that will provide Tantita Security Services with transformational capability to execute its security services operations. Its runway-independent configuration, which utilizes Hybrid Quadrotor technology to achieve VTOL capabilities, makes it an ideal choice for protecting Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure.
The Aerosonde system has a proven track record of performance and benchmark-setting reliability, having accumulated over 700,000 flight hours in some of the world’s most challenging environments. The system has conducted operations across the globe and currently operates on over 10 U.S. Navy ships. Its versatility is further demonstrated by its ability to be configured for multiple payload options, including both VTOL and fixed-wing configurations.
“This contract builds on our support to international customers over the last several years,” said Senior Vice President, Air, Land and Sea Systems David Phillips of Textron Systems. “The Aerosonde UAS family of systems have established themselves as a trusted and reliable solution for security operations worldwide.”
Textron Systems is a world leader in uncrewed air, surface, and land products, services, and support. The company’s expertise spans multiple domains, including air, land, sea, propulsion, weapon systems, electronic systems, test, training & simulation, and has amassed over 700,000 flight hours across various international customers.
The company was founded on the combined expertise of its family of brands, which include Textron Systems, Howe & Howe, Lycoming, and ATAC. The companies have come together to provide innovative solutions to support defense, aerospace, and other customer missions. From product development and manufacturing to training, operations, and support, Textron Systems integrates and offers ingenious and advanced solutions that meet the unique needs of each client.
In addition to its commitment to delivering high-quality products, Textron Systems is dedicated to building strong partnerships with its customers. The company’s focus on collaboration and customer satisfaction has earned it a reputation as a trusted partner in the defense and aerospace industries.
Textron Inc., the parent company of Textron Systems, is also a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial, and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. The company’s diverse portfolio includes powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Pipistrel, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, and Textron Systems.
The partnership between Tantita Security Services and Arco Worldwide Services is a significant development in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its security capabilities. The delivery of the Aerosonde VTOL UAS systems will play a critical role in supporting the country’s oil and gas industry, providing an additional layer of protection against potential threats.
The introduction of UAS technology in Nigeria has been welcomed by various stakeholders, including government officials and industry experts. The move is seen as a major step forward in enhancing security solutions for the country’s vital infrastructure, including its oil and gas installations.
As the use of UAS technology becomes increasingly widespread, it is likely that we will see more innovative applications in the security sector. The partnership between Tantita Security Services and Arco Worldwide Services is an example of this trend, highlighting the potential for collaboration and cooperation to drive positive change.
The contract awarded to Textron Systems Corporation represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its security capabilities. The delivery of the Aerosonde VTOL UAS systems will provide Tantita Security Services with transformational capability to execute its security services operations.
The Aerosonde system’s proven track record, versatility, and reliability make it an ideal choice for protecting Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure. As the world becomes increasingly reliant on technology to address security challenges, it is clear that partnerships like this one will play a critical role in shaping the future of security solutions.
In conclusion, the contract awarded to Textron Systems Corporation represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its security capabilities. The partnership between Tantita Security Services and Arco Worldwide Services underscores the growing importance of UAS technology in supporting security operations around the world.