By Sandra Chukwunyere
Textron Systems Corporation, a US-based company, has announced a contract to deliver three Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) to Tantita Security Services (TSSNL),a Nigerian security solutions provider owned by Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.
The firm, in a statement shared on its website on December 29, 2025, said the systems, which will be provided in a fully ITAR-Free configuration, are designed to operate without the need for runways, using hybrid quadrotor technology to enable vertical takeoff and landing.
The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS is a mature, highly reliable, and industry-proven autonomous solution designed to provide transformational capability to Tantita Security Services. The system is capable of operating in both VTOL and fixed-wing modes, making it an ideal solution for security operations in Nigeria’s high-risk sectors.
David Phillips, Senior Vice President, Air, Land, and Sea Systems at Textron Systems, stated, “The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS is a proven solution that will enable Tantita Security Services to expand its capabilities to protect the oil and gas infrastructure essential to Nigerian security and prosperity.” The system has a proven track record, with over 700,000 flight hours in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
Tantita Security Services will utilize the Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS to enhance security operations in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. The contract includes options for training and additional aircraft to support planned capability expansion.
The contract builds on a previous Foreign Military Sale (FMS) contract to Nigeria and demonstrates Textron Systems’ commitment to delivering advanced security solutions to support Nigerian security operations. The Aerosonde UAS family of systems has been providing support to international customers for several years, with operations in over 10 U.S. Navy ships.
Textron Systems is a world leader in uncrewed air, surface, and land products, services, and support, with a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction. The company is part of Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT), a multi-industry company with a global network of aircraft, defense, industrial, and finance businesses.
The Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS is a testament to Textron Systems’ commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, offering a reliable and efficient solution for security operations in challenging environments. The system is equipped with multiple payload configurations, providing versatility and flexibility in security operations.
Textron Systems will provide training and support services to Tantita Security Services, ensuring seamless integration of the Aerosonde Mk. 4.7 VTOL UAS into their security fleet.
