Strong Technological Capacity Key to Safeguarding National Interests – ENDF Chief of Staff

Addis Ababa, January 1, 2025 (FMC) – Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, has underscored that building strong technological capacity is vital to safeguarding national interests, stressing the need to strengthen and advance research efforts.

The ENDF chief of staff made the remarks during the launch of the ENDF’s Research and Development (R&D) Policy, alongside the unveiling of the institution’s newly established Research and Development Center.

Speaking on the occasion, Field Marshal Berhanu said research and development plays a decisive role in strengthening a country’s economic, social, and military capacities, enabling nations and institutions to advance to higher levels of development.

He emphasized the importance of expanding and deepening research initiatives that lead to new discoveries, noting that such efforts should contribute not only to institutional growth but also to the overall development of the country and the African continent.

According to the Chief of Staff, building a strong country and a capable institution requires a continuous process of generating, developing, monitoring, and researching new ideas.

In this context, he stressed the necessity of focusing on the development and study of innovative technologies that provide solutions to existing challenges while sustainably protecting the national interests of Ethiopia.

Meanwhile, Major General Bulti Tadesse, Commander of the Defense War College, said the newly established R&D Center is expected to play an irreplaceable role in the success of the ENDF’s ongoing transformation journey.

The center, according to him, will serve as a cornerstone in the construction of a modern defense force, according to the ENDF’s online media team.

Major General Bulti further stated that the center will play a vital role in enabling the ENDF to create the necessary conditions to become a globally competitive institution, positioning it as a leading hub for ideas and innovation in the security and technology sectors.