Tinubu Commissions Two Attack Helicopters, NAF to Receive 49 More Aircraft

As part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s air power and combat rising security challenges, President Bola Tinubu has inducted two new attack helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fleet.

The induction ceremony, which coincided with the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force, was held in Abuja on Thursday. President Tinubu was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The two aircraft, designated NAF544 and NAF545, are expected to enhance operational capabilities in ongoing military efforts to address insecurity across the country.

In his address, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, announced that the Nigerian Air Force is set to receive 49 additional aircraft by the year 2027, in alignment with the President’s security agenda.

He detailed the delivery plan, which includes: “In line with Mr President’s firm commitment towards Nigeria’s security, the Nigerian Air Force is poised to receive 49 more aircraft within the next two years. This includes 10 additional Augusta 109, trekker helicopters, 12 A-1 Zulu attack helicopters, 20, 4m, 346, attack and ground attack aircraft, and three CASA 295 Million air lift aircraft,” the NAF chief explained.

Air Marshal Abubakar also revealed that between 2024 and now, the NAF has already received nine new aircraft, comprising four T-129 attack helicopters, three King Air 360 aircraft, and the two Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters commissioned at the event.

The induction is seen as a strategic move to boost the operational readiness and response capacity of the Nigerian Air Force in its counter-terrorism, anti-banditry, and border patrol missions nationwide.

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