Chief Advances M-346 Fighter and AW-109 Trekker Programmes To Strengthen Nigeria’s Airpower
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recorded notable progress in its fleet modernisation drive as the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, engaged the Leonardo Aircraft Division in Milan, Italy, on the M-346 fighter ground attack aircraft programme. Describing the programme as a critical leap in renewing the NAF’s combat capability, the CAS noted that the M-346 platform will significantly enhance precision strike operations, improve advanced training outcomes, and strengthen Nigeria’s regional deterrence posture through synchronised delivery and seamless induction into operational service.
The visit to Italy, held between 19 and 20 January 2025, formed part of a broader strategic engagement with Leonardo, including high-level interactions with the Leonardo Helicopter Division. The engagements, undertaken alongside the Permanent Secretaries of the Ministries of Defence and Finance, other senior government officials, and senior NAF officers, underscored the priority placed by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on airpower modernisation and defence–industrial cooperation as central pillars of national security. During the visit, Air Marshal Aneke commended Leonardo’s professionalism and longstanding support to the NAF, noting the vital role of platforms such as the AW-109 Trekker Type B helicopters in ongoing counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and internal security operations.
The CAS further highlighted the proven operational record of Leonardo platforms in NAF service, including the G-222, ATR-42, and various AW-109 helicopter variants, which have delivered dependable performance across combat operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and other national support tasks. He emphasised the importance of timely aircraft delivery, structured training, and the establishment of a Leonardo Support Office in Nigeria to enhance aircraft availability, reduce turnaround time, and strengthen long-term sustainment. Responding on behalf of Leonardo, Mr Andrea Mirteto, Senior Vice President, Sales, Leonardo Helicopter Division, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Nigeria as a trusted strategic partner. Air Marshal Aneke assured Nigerians that the NAF remains steadfast in fulfilling President Tinubu’s mandate to decisively address security challenges nationwide, while building a more capable, responsive, and resilient Air Force in support of national development and economic growth.
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