Nigeria’s air force capabilities are poised for a significant upgrade with the anticipated delivery of 24 Leonardo M-346FA advanced jet trainers, which are equipped for combat roles.
The first three jets are expected to arrive by early 2025, with six currently under production. This follows a visit by Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar to Leonardo’s facilities in Italy in mid-October, according to a report by Flight Global.
The M-346FAs will serve dual purposes, acting as both advanced training platforms and combat-ready aircraft. Their versatility makes them suitable for close air support, ground and maritime strikes, and air defense missions.
This addition to the fleet will enhance Nigeria’s aerial capabilities by replacing the outdated Dassault Alpha Jet A/E and working alongside the existing A-29 Super Tucano and JF-17 Thunder aircraft. In addition to delivering the jets, Leonardo will provide training, support, and munitions to ensure the Nigerian Air Force can effectively operate these sophisticated aircraft.
Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the importance of establishing a maintenance hub in Nigeria to support the new M-346 fleet, a move that would ensure long-term operational sustainability for the aircraft.
Alongside securing the M-346s, Abubakar attended program review meetings for the acquisition and explored the possibility of purchasing 10 more AW109 Trekker helicopters. These versatile helicopters will enhance the Air Force’s operational range across multiple missions.
The AW109s will support various tasks, including combat search and rescue, which involves locating and retrieving personnel from hostile areas, medical evacuation for critically injured personnel, and tactical training to improve pilot skills through advanced simulations.
The Nigerian Air Force currently operates two AW109 Trekker helicopters, with an additional batch expected by early 2026. This expansion will bolster the nation’s counter-terrorism capabilities and strengthen its aerial defenses.
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