The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) continues to strengthen its operational capabilities, with the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, leading high-level discussions in the United States to facilitate the acquisition of 12 advanced AH-1Z attack helicopters.
The Service spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said on Thursday that Aneke’s engagement with senior US Government officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron from 5 to 6 January 2026 in San Diego, California, underscores the NAF’s deliberate effort to enhance its operational capacity in line with the his Command Philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in synergy with surface forces to achieve national security objectives.
TheFact Daily notes that NAF is on track to significantly expand its aerial fleet, with acquisitions projected from 2025 to 2026 to include 10 AW‑109 Trekker helicopters, 24 M‑346FA jets, three CASA‑295 transport aircraft, and 12 AH‑1Z attack helicopters as part of a larger fleet of 49 aircraft by the end of 2026, strengthening its operational and tactical capabilities.
During the engagement, Air Marshal Aneke commended the United States Government and Bell Textron for their cooperation, professionalism, and transparency in the execution of the helicopter acquisition programme, even as he noted that the programme represents more than a capability upgrade, describing it as a testament to the enduring defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States, anchored on mutual trust, shared values. He also charged the programme management team to remain focused, innovative, and disciplined to ensure timely delivery of the helicopters within approved timelines and budget.
The Air Chief expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Air Force, noting that the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters would significantly enhance the Service’s combat capability, operational efficiency, and mission readiness.
He added that the advanced platforms will enable the NAF to conduct highly precise operations, provide responsive support to ground forces, protect lives and property, and more effectively eliminate terrorist and criminal threats, while sustaining public trust and confidence in the professionalism of the Nigerian Air Force.
