The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is gearing up to enhance its combat capabilities with the acquisition of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters. This move marks a significant step forward in the country's ongoing efforts to strengthen its air power, particularly in the fight against armed gangs, terrorists, and other security threats.
The acquisition is part of a broader plan announced earlier this year, in which the NAF committed to procuring 50 new aircraft. This latest deal underscores Nigeria's determination to modernize its air fleet and improve its operational effectiveness across various missions.
Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF, confirmed the progress of the acquisition talks in a statement issued on Sunday. He disclosed that the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, along with officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, had recently concluded a Programme Management Review meeting with Leonardo S.P.A, the Italian defense contractor responsible for manufacturing the jets and helicopters.
During the meeting, the Nigerian delegation was briefed on delivery timelines. According to Akinboyewa, the first three of the 24 M-346 jets are expected to arrive in Nigeria by early 2025, with the rest being delivered by mid 2026. Similarly, the additional 10 AW-109 helicopters will arrive by early 2026, complementing the two units already in service.
While in Italy, Air Marshal Abubakar also inspected the first batch of six M-346 jets previously purchased by the NAF, noting that three of the jets were nearing completion. The CAS emphasized the need for a long-term partnership with Leonardo, which includes establishing a maintenance hub in Nigeria to ensure sustained support for the M-346 fleet.
The M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets, renowned for their advanced capabilities in both air to air and air to ground missions, will significantly bolster Nigeria’s air combat power. The jets are equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance precision strikes and combat effectiveness in various operational scenarios.
Meanwhile, the AW-109 Trekker helicopters will play crucial roles in combat support operations such as Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), tactical airlift, and medical evacuation. These helicopters are versatile, designed to perform efficiently in challenging environments, making them an asset in both combat and humanitarian missions.
This acquisition aligns with the NAF’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet and optimize its force structure for greater agility and resilience. Over the past two years, the NAF has already taken delivery of 12 Super Tucano jets, two DA-62 surveillance aircraft, and T-129 ATAK helicopters, among other assets. The introduction of the M-346 and AW-109 further solidifies the service’s commitment to enhancing its operational readiness and effectiveness.
Akinboyewa concluded by reiterating that the procurement of these aircraft is in line with the CAS Command Philosophy, which focuses on transforming the NAF for enhanced operational effectiveness. By investing in advanced aircraft and fostering strategic partnerships with global defense manufacturers, the Nigerian Air Force is positioning itself to better tackle security challenges and contribute to national defense.
As Nigeria continues to face evolving security threats, this acquisition represents a vital step toward ensuring the country's air force remains well equipped and capable of defending its airspace and supporting ground operations. The collaboration with Italy's Leonardo S.P.A also highlights Nigeria’s growing focus on building long term partnerships with international defense companies, ensuring sustainable growth and development in the defense sector.
With the delivery of the first jets expected in early 2025, Nigeria is well on its way to reinforcing its military capabilities, ensuring a stronger, more agile air force ready to meet future challenges head on.