Textron Systems Corporation, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, has announced that it has been awarded a contract by Tantita Security Services Limited (TSSL), a leading Nigerian security solutions provider, to deliver three Aerosonde® Mk. 4.7 vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS).
The award reflects a growing collaboration between Textron Systems and Tantita to enhance persistent surveillance and security operations in support of Nigeria’s vital oil and gas infrastructure.
The Aerosonde systems will be delivered in a fully ITAR-free configuration, enabling efficient export and rapid fielding for international customers. Once operational, the aircraft will provide Tantita with advanced, runway-independent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities to support the protection of high-value energy assets across complex and high-risk operating environments.
The contract also includes options for additional aircraft and training to support Tantita’s planned capability expansion, building on prior UAS support to Nigeria through a previous Foreign Military Sale (FMS) programme.
The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS combines hybrid quadrotor vertical takeoff and landing technology with the endurance and efficiency of fixed-wing flight, allowing operations from austere and confined locations without the need for prepared runways.
Its proven reliability and adaptability make it well suited for the demanding security missions Tantita executes in support of Nigeria’s national economic and energy security.
“The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS is a mature, highly reliable, and operationally proven autonomous solution that will provide Tantita Security Services with a transformational capability”, the Senior Vice President, Air, Land and Sea Systems at Textron Systems, David Phillips, said.
“By partnering Tantita, we are enabling expanded operational reach and persistent situational awareness to help protect the oil and gas infrastructure that is essential to Nigeria’s security and prosperity”.
This contract further extends Textron Systems’ long-standing support to international security and defense customers through the Aerosonde family of systems. With more than 700,000 flight hours accumulated worldwide, Aerosonde UAS platforms have demonstrated consistent performance in some of the world’s most challenging operational environments.
The system is deployed globally, including active operations aboard more than 10 U.S. Navy ships, and supports multiple payload configurations with both VTOL and fixed-wing options to meet a wide range of mission requirements.
Textron Systems continues to work closely with partners such as Tantita Security Services to deliver scalable, multi-mission uncrewed solutions that enhance security, resilience, and operational effectiveness for customers around the world.