Combat Readiness: Nigerian Air Force Acquires Fighter Jets, Helicopters From Italy
By Matthew Eloyi
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to enhance its combat capabilities with the acquisition of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack (FGA) jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters from Italian defense company Messrs Leonardo S.p.A.
This development was confirmed during a visit led by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, to the company’s headquarters in Rome.
The NAF delegation, which included officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, finalized the acquisition deal aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s air combat readiness.
The delegation also inspected the first batch of six M-346 jets, three of which are nearing completion, with delivery expected by early 2025. The remaining units will be delivered by mid-2026.
In a statement released on Sunday by NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, the CAS highlighted the importance of the new acquisitions for national defense.
He recommended the creation of a Programme Management Office to oversee the collaboration and ensure smooth implementation of the project.
Abubakar also emphasized the need for a maintenance hub in Nigeria to support the long-term operational efficiency of the M-346 fleet.
“On its part, the AW-109 will bolster combat support roles such as Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), tactical airlift, and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC), among others,” Akinboyewa said.
The statement further explained that two AW-109 Trekker helicopters had already been acquired by the NAF, with the additional 10 expected by early 2026.
During the visit, the firm’s Aircraft Division showcased the M-346 in an aerial display, emphasizing its air-to-air and air-to-ground mission capabilities, which will significantly enhance Nigeria’s air combat operations.
The acquisition of these aircraft aligns with the CAS’s philosophy of transforming the NAF for greater agility and resilience, focusing on the optimization of force structure for enhanced operational effectiveness.