The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken delivery of five new helicopters as the Federal Government moves to strengthen the country’s airpower and give troops on the ground faster and more effective air support.
The new aircraft comprise three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters of Italy and two H-125 helicopters produced by Airbus Helicopters.
For troops confronting terrorism, kidnapping and banditry across the country, the additional helicopters are expected to improve the speed, reach and availability of air support during military operations.
The three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters, which form part of 10 aircraft recently acquired by the Federal Government, arrived in Lagos on Tuesday, September 15. The remaining seven are expected to be delivered before the end of the year.
The two H-125 helicopters were delivered earlier.
In a statement, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the new platforms would contribute to the ongoing effort to modernise the Nigerian Air Force.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the helicopters would increase aircraft availability and strengthen the NAF’s ability to respond to operational demands.
According to him, the AW-109 helicopters will enhance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, close air support, armed escort and combat search and rescue, while also supporting joint operations with ground forces.
He added that the H-125 helicopters would provide versatile light-helicopter support for a range of operational needs.
Air Marshal Aneke expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as sustained support for the transformation and modernisation of the Nigerian Air Force.
The NAF said the newly delivered helicopters are currently undergoing post-delivery assembly, technical checks and crew-readiness processes ahead of their formal induction and deployment.
For communities affected by insecurity, the expansion of the NAF’s rotary-wing fleet could mean quicker aerial support when troops come under pressure and improved surveillance of difficult-to-reach areas.
Air Marshal Aneke stressed, however, that effective maintenance, logistics and proper employment of the aircraft would remain critical to sustaining their operational value.
The NAF said the additional helicopters are expected to support joint military operations against terrorism, kidnapping and banditry while contributing to the protection of lives and property across Nigeria.
