US Commends NAF’s Readiness for AH-1Z Helicopters
The United States Government has commended the Nigerian Air Force for its high level of preparedness ahead of the delivery of AH-1Z attack helicopters, in a move that signals deepening defence cooperation between both countries.
The commendation was delivered during a three-day high-level engagement at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja between a United States Government delegation from PMA-276, led by Robert Galan, and senior NAF officials.
The discussions focused on a comprehensive Programme and Support Plan designed to ensure seamless integration, sustainment and operational effectiveness of the incoming AH-1Z fleet.
According to the US delegation, the Nigerian Air Force demonstrated significant readiness, including adequate preparation of designated facilities where the helicopters will be domiciled upon arrival.
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Representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the engagement, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Abdullahi, reaffirmed the service’s commitment to ensuring immediate operational readiness once the aircraft are delivered.
He said the NAF had aligned all operational, technical and logistical requirements to guarantee smooth induction of the attack helicopters into active service.
The engagement highlights steady progress in Nigeria–United States defence relations, anchored on shared security objectives and institutional collaboration.
Military sources said beyond fleet acquisition, the AH-1Z programme is expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s airpower capability, strengthen close air support operations and reinforce the country’s overall national security architecture.
The recognition by the United States is also seen as an endorsement of the Nigerian Air Force’s ongoing modernization drive and strategic planning efforts under its current leadership.
By PRNigeria
