NAF logo
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has strengthened its operational capabilities with the delivery of five new helicopters, marking a significant step in the Federal Government’s ongoing push to modernize the nation’s airpower.
The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, announced the development in a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday. According to the NAF, the newly acquired platforms include three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters in Italy, alongside two H-125 helicopters produced by Airbus Helicopters.
The three AW-109s arrived in Lagos on September 15 as part of a larger procurement of 10 units ordered by the Federal Government, with the remaining seven expected to arrive before the close of 2026. The two H-125 units were delivered earlier.
Enhancing Operational Readiness
Speaking on the acquisition, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described the addition as a major milestone in the modernization and re-equipment of the service. He noted that the platforms would directly boost asset availability and improve responsiveness across various active operational theatres.
AW-109 Trekker B Role: These three aircraft will bolster capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), close air support, armed escort, combat search and rescue, and joint operations supporting surface forces.
H-125 Role: The two Airbus H-125 helicopters will deliver versatile and responsive light helicopter support to meet a diverse range of tactical requirements.
“The arrival of these five helicopters provides greater flexibility in the employment of airpower in support of ground troops in ongoing operations,” Air Marshal Aneke stated. He added that the increased rotary-wing capacity will be instrumental in countering terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry, while expanding the speed, reach, and effectiveness of air-to-ground support.
Leadership and Next Steps
The Chief of the Air Staff expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his sustained backing of the transformation and re-equipment initiatives within the armed forces.
“His commitment is enabling us to progressively build the capabilities required to meet our operational responsibilities and confront the nation’s evolving security challenges,” Aneke said on behalf of NAF officers and personnel.
The NAF confirmed that the newly delivered aircraft are currently undergoing post-delivery assembly, technical checks, and crew-readiness processes ahead of their formal induction and operational deployment.
“We will continue to prioritize effective employment, maintenance, and logistics sustainment so that every aircraft delivered adds measurable value to ongoing operations and the protection of lives and property of Nigerians,” the CAS concluded.
