Developed entirely locally, the Milkor 380 addresses a wide range of operational needs in both military and civilian contexts. Its capabilities extend from border protection and intelligence gathering to maritime domain awareness and counter-terrorism, demonstrating how South African innovation can contribute to global security dialogues.

 

Performance and Capabilities
The Milkor 380 boasts an 18.6-metre wingspan, a maximum take-off weight of 1,500 kg, and a payload capacity of up to 220 kg. It can carry mission-specific equipment including electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), signals intelligence (SIGINT) pods, electronic warfare (EW) suites, and precision-guided munitions. Powered by a fuel-efficient turboprop engine, it achieves up to 35 hours of operational endurance and can operate at altitudes reaching 30,000 feet.

Recent advancements include a strategic MoU with Hanwha Systems to integrate active electronically scanned array (AESA) SAR, enhancing all-weather imaging for global markets. Autonomous take-off and landing systems, coupled with satellite communications, extend its range to over 4,000 km in beyond-line-of-sight operations.

 

Multi-Role Applications
The Milkor 380’s modular design makes it ideal for a spectrum of missions. For border surveillance, it monitors vast frontiers in real-time, detecting illegal crossings, smuggling, and poaching. In intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, it provides persistent monitoring and actionable intelligence for decision-makers.

 

Maritime domain operations are another strength. The UAV can patrol exclusive economic zones (EEZs), track illegal fishing, and support search-and-rescue missions. Its SAR and EO/IR integration enables effective operations in adverse weather, enhancing maritime security.

 

The platform also functions as an unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), capable of carrying light precision munitions for targeted engagements, supporting counter-insurgency operations while minimising collateral damage.

 

A Milestone in South African Aerospace
First flown in September 2023, the Milkor 380 builds on South Africa’s UAV development legacy, emerging as Africa’s largest indigenous drone. It fosters high-tech job creation, local manufacturing, and skills development, while reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Its success at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition in 2024 has positioned South Africa as a credible player in global aerospace markets.

 

Strategic National Value
Domestically, the Milkor 380 supports border security, anti-poaching efforts in reserves such as Kruger National Park, and maritime domain awareness along South Africa’s 2,800 km coastline. During natural disasters, it provides rapid aerial assessment to aid emergency response. Militarily, it offers close air support, ISTAR capabilities, and versatile strike options for force protection.

 

As the G20 Summit approaches, the Milkor 380 stands as a symbol of African technological ingenuity, demonstrating that local innovation can deliver strategic, versatile, and globally competitive aerospace solutions.