.jpeg)
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recorded notable progress in its fleet modernisation drive following a high-level engagement in Italy by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, with Leonardo Aircraft Division in Milan.
During the engagement, Air Marshal Aneke described the M-346 fighter ground attack aircraft programme as a critical leap in renewing the NAF’s combat capability. He noted that the platform will significantly enhance precision strike operations, improve training outcomes, and reinforce Nigeria’s regional deterrence posture through carefully synchronised aircraft delivery and seamless induction into operational service.
In a press statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the visit—held between 19 and 20 January 2025—formed part of broader strategic engagements with Leonardo, including high-level interactions at the Leonardo Helicopter Division.
The delegation included Permanent Secretaries from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, other senior government officials, and top NAF officers, underscoring the priority placed by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on airpower modernisation and defence–industrial cooperation as key pillars of national security.
At the Leonardo Helicopter Division, the CAS commended the company’s professionalism and long-standing support to the NAF, highlighting the operational value of platforms such as the AW-109 Trekker Type B helicopters in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and internal security operations nationwide.
He also cited the dependable performance of Leonardo platforms already in NAF service—including the G-222, ATR-42, and various AW-109 variants—across combat missions, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response.
Discussions at the Aircraft Division focused on delivery timelines, infrastructure readiness at the Main Operating Base in Nigeria, and the need for early, comprehensive training for pilots, engineers, and logisticians to ensure rapid operational readiness.
Air Marshal Aneke further emphasised the establishment of a Leonardo Support Office in Nigeria to improve aircraft availability, reduce turnaround time, enhance local capacity, and strengthen long-term sustainment in line with the administration’s drive for self-reliance and operational efficiency.
Responding on behalf of Leonardo, Senior Vice President (Sales), Mr Andrea Mirteto, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Nigeria as a valued strategic partner, assuring timely delivery and sustained cooperation under the AW-109 Trekker and M-346 programmes.
Air Marshal Aneke reassured Nigerians that the NAF, working closely with other Services and security agencies, remains steadfast in fulfilling the President’s mandate to decisively address security challenges, protect lives and property, and create a secure environment for national development and economic growth.
