Nigerian Startup Terra Industries Unveils Autonomous Defence Systems for Military Use

Terra Industries, a Nigerian defence startup, has unveiled autonomous drones, mine-detection vehicles, and intelligence systems for military use. The company is shifting into defence technology for the Nigerian Armed Forces. Founded by Nathan Nwachuku and Maxwell Maduka, it has raised $34 million, partnered with Nigeria’s defence industry corporation, and plans a drone factory in Ghana. It says its systems already secure infrastructure worth about $11 billion across Africa.

Terra Industries, a Nigerian defence technology startup, has presented a new range of autonomous defence systems, including interceptor drones, mine-detection vehicles, and battlefield intelligence software during a public demonstration attended by senior military officials and government representatives. The event, held on Monday, represents a major shift for the company as it moves from providing commercial infrastructure security services into developing advanced systems intended for direct deployment by the Nigerian Armed Forces.
During the demonstration, officials observed unmanned ground vehicles designed to detect improvised explosive devices, which remain a major threat in conflict-affected regions. The company also showcased interceptor drones built to neutralize aerial threats through kinetic impact, offering an alternative to traditional missile-based defence systems. According to the company, these technologies are specifically designed to address operational challenges on the ground, particularly the persistent risk of roadside explosives and other asymmetric warfare tactics, as reported by Reuters News Agency.
Nigeria continues to face a complex security environment, with ongoing insurgency in the northeast involving groups such as Boko Haram and its splinter factions, as well as banditry and armed violence in parts of the northwest. Authorities have repeatedly stated that efforts are ongoing to strengthen military capability and improve the safety of personnel deployed in these regions.
Company representatives at the event emphasised that the new systems are designed to be both cost-effective and adaptable to local conditions. They highlighted the interceptor drones in particular, noting that they are intended to counter aerial threats without relying on expensive missile systems, which are often difficult to sustain in prolonged conflict environments.
Terra Industries was founded two years ago by Nathan Nwachuku, aged 22, and Maxwell Maduka, aged 24. Since its establishment, the startup has grown rapidly and attracted significant investment. Earlier this year, it raised $34 million from investors including Lux Capital and 8VC, signalling strong international interest in its defence technology solutions.
In February, the company entered into a joint venture agreement with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, a partnership aimed at strengthening domestic defence manufacturing and reducing reliance on imported military equipment. In addition, Terra Industries has announced plans to establish a 34,000-square-foot drone manufacturing facility in Ghana, which is expected to begin operations by June.
The company further stated that its existing security technologies are already in use protecting infrastructure assets valued at approximately $11 billion across Africa. Through these developments, Terra Industries is positioning itself as a growing and influential player in Africa’s evolving defence and security technology sector, with ambitions to expand its footprint across the continent.