Nigerian defence-technology startup Terra Industries has raised an additional $18 million, bringing its total seed funding to $52 million as the company expands its operations across Africa and beyond.

Founded by Nathan Nwachukwu, 22, and Maxwell Maduka, 24, the Abuja-based startup is preparing to open its Pax-2 drone manufacturing facility in Ghana in the fourth quarter.

The 34,000-square-foot factory is expected to become Africa’s largest drone manufacturing facility once operational. Terra says the plant could produce up to 50,000 aerial systems annually by 2028.

The new funding will support manufacturing in Africa, while helping the company expand its sales and operations internationally. Terra also plans to open its first international office in London.

The Ghana facility follows Terra’s 15,000-square-foot flagship factory in Abuja and marks a major step in the company’s plan to expand its manufacturing footprint beyond Nigeria.

Terra Industries says its technology is already being used to help protect power plants, mines and other critical infrastructure valued at approximately $11 billion across several African countries.

The latest investment highlights the growing role of African startups in the global defence and advanced-technology industry.

GistZone | Business & Technology