Nigeria’s Air Force to Acquire More Fighter Helicopters to Boost Combat Capabilities

Nigeria’s military has made significant strides in recent years to modernize its capabilities, and the latest move is set to further boost its combat prowess. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to acquire 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, aimed at enhancing its ability to combat armed gangs and terrorists.

This development comes after the NAF disclosed in June that it would acquire 50 new aircraft to strengthen its capabilities. Since then, the service has taken delivery of 12 Super Tucano, two additional DA-62 surveillance aircraft, and T-129 ATAK helicopters, and two Diamond-62 Multi-Purpose aircraft among others.

The latest acquisition is a result of a seven-day visit by a delegation of top NAF officials, including Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, to Italy to finalise arrangements for the acquisition of the new aircraft. The delegation met with officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance and Messrs Leonardo S.P.A, the Italian company responsible for building the aircraft.

According to Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information, the 24 M-346 jets will have advanced features capable of conducting both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, significantly strengthening Nigeria’s air combat capabilities. The AW-109 Trekker helicopters, on the other hand, will bolster combat support roles such as Combat Search and Rescue, tactical airlift, and Medical Evacuation.

The aircraft are expected to be delivered in batches, with the first three units of the M-346 jets expected to be delivered by early 2025, while subsequent deliveries will run through mid-2026. The additional 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters are also expected to be delivered by early 2026.

The acquisition is part of the NAF’s Command Philosophy to transform the force for greater agility and resilience, with a focus on the optimization of force structure and establishment for enhanced operational effectiveness.

With this acquisition, Nigeria’s Air Force is set to take a significant step forward in its efforts to boost its combat capabilities, ultimately enhancing the country’s security and defense.