NAF Fast-tracking Acquisition Of 46 Fighter Jets, Attack Helicopters- CAS
The Nigerian Air Force has said it is fast-tracking the procurement of 46 fighter and rotary-wing aircraft as part of efforts to strengthen operational capacity and prepare pilots for modern platforms.
The service said the strategic engagements with partners in the United States, Italy and Türkiye were yielding results, with the NAF fast-tracking the acquisition of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters.
A statement on Friday by the NAF spokesperson, Ehimen Ejodame said the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, disclosed this on Thursday while inaugurating infrastructural projects at NAF Base Kaduna.
“Strategic engagements in the United States, Italy, and Türkiye are already yielding results. We are fast-tracking the procurement of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters, and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, all aimed at enhancing our operational effectiveness across the full spectrum of air operations,” he noted.
Aneke said the completion of the Student Pilots’ Quarters was a key step in preparing pilots who would operate advanced aircraft, adding that the facilities would support training and readiness.
He noted that the commissioning formed part of broader efforts to build a professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering airpower in support of national security objectives.
“The infrastructure projects commissioned include six blocks of 12 one-bedroom Student Pilots’ Quarters, a block of six three-bedroom flats initiated by the Ministry of Defence and completed by the NAF, and a block of 30 one-bedroom studio apartments for airmen and airwomen of the Military Training Centre, ” he said.
He thanked the President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Tinubu, for supporting national security, including defence cooperation with Türkiye for the acquisition of helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Aneke urged personnel to maintain discipline and professionalism in the use of the facilities and commended the former Chief of the Air Staff, HB Abubakar, for initiating the project. He also acknowledged the Ministry of Defence, the National Assembly and contractors for enabling and completing the works.
In a welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, EP Efanga, said the facilities would strengthen operational readiness and improve personnel welfare, noting that they would support pilot training on incoming platforms.
The Nigerian Air Force is expanding its fleet and upgrading training infrastructure to address evolving security threats and operate newly acquired aircraft.
As part of this effort, the Service is investing in pilot training and facilities to support the deployment of incoming fighter jets and helicopters
