Nigerian Air Force advances fleet modernization with new aircraft acquisitions from Italy.

According to information published by the Nigerian MoD on October 13, 2024, a delegation of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) officials, led by Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, recently concluded a high-level visit to Italy to secure advanced aircraft for the country's air fleet.
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Italian Air Force's M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jet. (Picture source: Leonardo)

The delegation, which also included representatives from Nigeria's Ministries of Defence and Finance, held a Programme Management Review Meeting with executives from Leonardo. This visit marks a phase in the procurement of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and an additional 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, complementing the two already in service with the NAF.

During the visit, Air Marshal Abubakar stopped at Leonardo’s Rome headquarters, where discussions focused on solidifying a long-term partnership between the NAF and the Italian firm. The CAS also inspected the initial batch of six M-346 jets, noting that three are nearing completion. These aircraft, designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, are expected to begin arriving in Nigeria by early 2025, with further deliveries continuing through mid-2026.

In addition to the fighter jets, the acquisition of 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters is planned, with deliveries anticipated by early 2026. These helicopters will enhance the NAF’s ability to conduct various support operations, including Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), tactical airlift, and medical evacuations.

As part of the visit, the CAS called for the establishment of a dedicated Programme Management Office to ensure smooth execution of the project, alongside a maintenance hub in Nigeria to support the M-346 fleet long term.

Nigerian Air Force

The fleet currently includes a variety of aircraft that support a range of missions, from combat and transport to surveillance and training. Key combat assets include older platforms like the Chengdu F-7Ni interceptor and Dassault-Dornier Alpha Jets, used for fighter-bomber and close air support roles, respectively.

The more modern Embraer A-29 Super Tucano, procured from the U.S., plays a critical role in counter-insurgency operations, especially in the fight against Boko Haram. The air force is also incorporating unmanned systems, with Wing Loong II drones from China providing long-range surveillance and strike capabilities.

In terms of transport, the NAF operates several Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft, essential for tactical transport, alongside other utility planes like the Dornier Do 228.