African navies are encouraged to prioritise the purchase of modern surveillance technology and unmanned systems, and increase investment in local shipbuilding and specialised training to respond effectively to emerging maritime security threats across the continent.
A report by African Military on November 12, 2026, naval forces face the challenge of protecting extensive territorial waters and exclusive economic zones, often with limited operational vessels and financial resources. This challenge is particularly complex with 38 out of 54 African countries having coastlines.
Increased investment in modern defence technology is particularly important, as maritime security threats continue to evolve and place growing pressure on African defence forces, with piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling, oil theft and attacks on commercial shipping being some of the most significant and commonplace challenges for African defence forces.
Therefore, the future of naval warfare will depend increasingly on intelligence gathering, rapid decision-making and the ability to respond to threats without relying exclusively on large warships.
Technology is becoming central to naval operations.Coastal radar networks, satellite surveillance, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned surface vessels (USVs) offer opportunities to monitor larger maritime areas at lower operational costs.
For example, Nigeria has already strengthened its maritime surveillance capabilities through the introduction of AYBARS-2 tactical drones, while Seychelles has explored advanced drone technology to support protection for fisheries and maritime monitoring.
South Africa has also explored unmanned maritime technology, including the Sea Serpent USV and REMUS underwater systems, highlighting opportunities for local innovation in maritime autonomy.
Developing domestic shipbuilding and maintenance capabilities is also of importance. African countries should invest in locally manufactured patrol vessels, modular equipment and maintenance facilities to reduce dependence on international suppliers and improve operational readiness.
However, naval personnel will need expertise in operating unmanned systems, processing surveillance intelligence, maintaining advanced electronics and coordinating maritime security operations across national borders. Therefore, training will be equally important.
Regional exercises such as Obangame Express 2026 demonstrate the value of cooperation. Naval personnel from 17 countries participated in specialised boarding, search and seizure training in Senegal, strengthening their ability to respond to piracy and other maritime crimes.
Future investment must also address secure communications, counter-drone technology and the integration of naval operations with coast guards, fisheries authorities and law enforcement agencies.
Looking towards 2035, African navies face a strategic choice between acquiring expensive conventional warships and developing more flexible, technologically capable fleets.
African countries can protect their maritime resources, secure trade routes and respond to increasingly complex security challenges by placing a stronger focus on reliable patrol vessels, unmanned surveillance, domestic maintenance and continuous upskilling of personnel.
