Kehinde Fajobi
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to acquire 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters to boost its combat capabilities.
This acquisition is part of the NAF’s ongoing efforts to enhance its operational readiness against armed groups and terrorists.
In a statement on Sunday, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, confirmed that Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff, along with officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, were in Italy to finalise the acquisition process.
“A team of NAF experts, led by the Chief of Air Staff, along with officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, recently participated in a Programme Management Review Meeting in Italy with Messrs Leonardo S.P.A. The meeting aimed to finalise arrangements for the NAF’s acquisition of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and an additional 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters,” Akinboyewa said.
He also disclosed that the first three of the 24 M-346 jets are expected to be delivered by early 2025, with additional deliveries continuing through mid-2026.
“The first 3 units of 24 M-346 aircraft for Nigeria are expected by early 2025, with subsequent deliveries running until mid-2026,” Akinboyewa added.
The acquisition will also include 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, bolstering the two already procured by the NAF. These helicopters are anticipated by early 2026 and are expected to strengthen combat support roles such as Combat Search and Rescue, tactical airlift, and medical evacuation.
During his visit to Italy, Air Marshal Abubakar inspected the first batch of six M-346 jets, with three nearing completion. He also discussed long-term support systems with Leonardo executives, emphasising the need for a maintenance hub in Nigeria for the M-346 fleet.
Akinboyewa highlighted that the M-346 jets, equipped for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, would significantly enhance Nigeria’s air combat capabilities. The addition of the AW-109 helicopters would provide crucial support in various combat and operational roles.
“The M-346 and Trekker acquisitions are key steps towards fleet renewal, aligning with the CAS Command Philosophy to transform the NAF for greater agility and resilience, with emphasis on optimising force structure for enhanced operational effectiveness,” Akinboyewa concluded.