Patience Makwele
The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs says the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) is modernising its operations to include drone warfare and other technology-driven military systems training.
The ministry said this is as militaries across the world increasingly rely on drones, surveillance systems and cyber-based operations in conflicts.
“If you have been following current affairs, you would realise that wars are now predominantly fought with drones. As such, the NDF is in a modernisation process,” said defence and veterans affairs minister Frans Kapofi in a speech delivered on his behalf by special advisor Hilma Nikanor on Thursday at a graduation ceremony.
A total of 1 703 recruits graduated from the NDF training at Osona Military Base in Okahandja.
Of the 1 767 recruits who reported for training in May last year, 64 did not complete the programme because of disciplinary disqualifications and voluntary withdrawals.
The recruits received training in military drills, platoon weapons handling, combat readiness and specialised military instruction before graduating as privates.
Kapofi said Namibia now needs technologically skilled recruits who can adapt to intelligence-based warfare and modern military systems.
“We need young people adept with technology who will be trainable to ensure that our defence force is up there among the best in our region, the continent and the world,” he said.
Security expert Ignatius Jimmy Manyandelo said the minister’s remarks reflect changes already happening in global military operations.
“Modern warfare has changed dramatically. Drones are now used for surveillance, intelligence gathering and precision attacks. Countries that fail to adapt risk falling behind technologically and strategically,” Manyandelo said.
He said military preparedness requires countries to anticipate future threats before conflict emerges.
“You do not modernise only when conflict starts. Military preparedness is about anticipating future risks before they emerge,” he said.
Policy analyst Victor Uatjiri Tjivehua said Namibia’s modernisation plans would require long-term investment in training, cybersecurity and specialised systems.
“Technology-driven warfare is not just about buying drones. It requires trained operators, maintenance systems, intelligence structures and strong cyber capabilities. It is expensive and requires long-term planning,” he said.
He also warned that modern military technology creates new security risks.
“There are also ethical and legal questions globally around the use of drones in warfare. Namibia will eventually need proper policy frameworks and oversight mechanisms as these technologies develop,” he added.
Kapofi also warned recruits against misconduct, alcohol abuse and drug use.
“There is zero-tolerance for ill-discipline in the military,” he said.
He said dismissed soldiers often try to return to the force after realising the consequences of their actions but stressed that dismissal remains final.
The minister further urged recruits to remain apolitical and loyal to the Constitution.
“You are expected to be apolitical. Your loyalty is to the supreme law of the land, the Constitution and to serve the government of the day,” he said.
Kapofi also expressed concern over recruits abandoning military training programmes.
“The high number of applicants dropping out of training because the going has gotten tough is very concerning,” he said.
Despite the warnings, the ceremony remained emotional for many families who watched their children officially enter military service after months of strict training and isolation.
“You came here running to the barracks with mattresses on your heads as individuals, but you are leaving as a unit with skills of soldiers, perfected to defend our country’s territorial integrity and interests,” Kapofi told the graduates.
The newly trained soldiers are expected to be deployed across different regions as the NDF continues efforts to build a younger and technologically prepared defence force.
