Chinese, European firms battle for Nigeria’s strategic air defense and radar contract

Nigeria is modernizing its air defense and radar systems to address regional security threats.
European and Chinese firms are competing for the contract to provide radar technologies.
Implementing MTRACON may enhance regional airspace security and cooperation in West Africa.

Nigeria's plans to solidify and improve its air defense and radar systems is a step further in realizing its Military Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (MTRACON) initiative, which is aimed at establishing a robust, integrated network of surveillance systems capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing aerial threats in real time.

The MTRACON initiative is central to Nigeria’s ambition to close long-standing gaps in radar coverage, particularly over remote and high-risk areas vulnerable to smuggling, insurgent drone incursions, and potential airspace violations.

Designed as a multi-layered system, it combines fixed and mobile radar installations with modern command and control centers, allowing for coordinated air defense responses and better situational awareness across Nigeria’s vast territory.

Military Africa reports that four major defense firms, which include Leonardo (Italy), Rheinmetall (Germany), Norinco (China), and Indra (Spain), are vying for a lucrative contract to supply advanced surveillance and detection technologies.

The report highlights Nigeria’s pressing need to upgrade its radar systems, as its existing air defense platforms, such as the Roland II and ZSU-23-4 Shilka, are no longer effective against contemporary aerial threats.

The MTRACON initiative is central to Nigeria’s ambition to close long-standing gaps in radar coverage military africa

Coupled with persistent internal security issues such as insurgencies and threats to vital infrastructure, these weaknesses have elevated the MTRACON project to a top national priority.

Strategic defense bids underway

Rheinmetall is promoting its Skyguard 3 system to replace Nigeria’s ageing air defense platforms, offering protection against modern threats like cruise missiles and UAVs.

The company has engaged with Nigerian officials on broader defense needs, including ammunition supplies, in partnership with the defense Industries Corporation (DICON).

China’s Norinco is deeply involved in Nigeria’s MTRACON initiative, proposing radar and air defense infrastructure alongside talent development and a Radar Maintenance and Research Facility, highlighting a long-term commitment to local defense self-reliance.

Indra showcased integrated air traffic control, communication, radar, and counter-UAV solutions during a delegation visit that included Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff, emphasizing support for both military and civilian needs.

Italy’s Leonardo is pitching its RAT 31DL/M, a NATO-standard long-range AESA radar capable of tracking multiple targets simultaneously and operating effectively under electronic jamming, making it a strong contender for Nigeria’s airspace security upgrade.

With Nigeria serving as a key military and economic power in the region, the implementation of MTRACON is expected to reinforce regional airspace management and provide early warning capabilities that could benefit neighbouring states facing similar asymmetric threats.