Ethiopia prioritizes defense research and dev’t to build a modern, capable military

Addis Ababa, July 4, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia is prioritizing defense research and development (R&D) as a strategic pillar for building a modern and technologically advanced military, with an emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence (AI), cyber defense, and emerging military technologies.

This was underscored by Lieutenant General Yimer Mekonen, Head of Education and Training at the National Defense Force, during a national policy validation workshop held Friday on the draft Defense Research and Development Policy.

Organized by the Ethiopian Defense War College, the workshop brought together senior military officials, defense researchers, and other stakeholders to review and validate the draft policy. The discussions focused on aligning Ethiopia’s defense development strategy with evolving global security dynamics.

Lieutenant General Yimer highlighted the importance of incorporating AI, cyber capabilities, and other emerging technologies into Ethiopia’s defense R&D efforts, stressing that such integration is essential to strengthening the country’s national security and preparing the military to address future threats.

He noted that the draft policy serves as a critical foundation for developing homegrown military innovation and enhancing Ethiopia’s self-reliance in defense technology.

Brigadier General Bulti Tadesse, Commander of the Defense War College, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing that a robust and forward-looking defense R&D framework is necessary to align Ethiopia’s military capabilities with international standards.

He added that the policy aims to foster collaboration between defense institutions and academic bodies, laying the groundwork for a more adaptive and innovation-driven military force capable of supporting both national security and development goals.