NAF to Acquire 34 New Fighter Jets, Helicopters from Italy

NAF to Acquire 34 New Fighter Jets, Helicopters from Italy

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to acquire 34 new fighter jets and helicopters from Messrs Leonardo S.p.A in Italy to bolster its combat capabilities and operational efficiency.

A team led by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar,  experts, alongside officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, finalized the deal in Italy.

A statement by Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, said the acquisition includes 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, in addition to the two Trekkers already in the NAF’s possession.

During the visit, Abubakar inspected the first batch of six M-346 jets, with three nearing completion, and evaluated key support systems required to boost the NAF’s operational readiness.

“The first three units of 24 M-346 aircraft are expected by early 2025, with subsequent deliveries running until mid-2026,” Akinboyewa stated. “Meanwhile, the additional 10 Trekkers are expected by early 2026.”

Abubakar stressed the need for a maintenance hub in Nigeria to provide long-term support, especially for the M-346 fleet. He also recommended establishing a Programme management office to oversee the collaboration and ensure smooth project implementation.

The NAF spokesperson said the M-346 and Trekker acquisitions align with the CAS Command Philosophy, aiming to transform the NAF for greater agility and resilience.

“The new aircraft will significantly enhance Nigeria’s air combat capabilities, with the M-346 capable of both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, and the AW-109 supporting combat search and rescue, tactical airlift, and medical evacuation operations.

“The acquisition demonstrates the NAF’s commitment to strengthening its capabilities to address national security challenges,” he said.

By PRNigeria