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FG signs deal for acquisition of 12 US attack helicopters
The Nigerian Air Force has signed a deal with Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, United States, for the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters.
The development marked a significant milestone in the implementation of the defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
Nigerian air chief, Sunday Aneke, led a NAF delegation to the signing ceremony.
According to a statement on Monday by NAF spokesperson, Ehimen Ejodame, the acquisition is part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen the country’s security architecture.
Aneke said in the ceremony that the acquisition would enhance the operational effectiveness of the force.
“The acquisition of the AH-1Z Viper helicopters represents an important milestone in our continuing efforts to build a more capable, professional and mission-ready Nigerian Air Force,” he said.
He said that with the acquisition, the force would be able to deliver decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces to achieve national security objectives.
The air chief thanked president Bola Tinubu for his “strategic leadership, unwavering support and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence and security architecture.”
He also acknowledged the continued support and cooperation of the United States Government, Bell Textron and other stakeholders involved in the AH-1Z Viper programme.
“Sustained defence cooperation, technical collaboration and capability development remain essential to the successful implementation of the programme,” Aneke said.
The NAF delegation also inspected the AH-1Z Viper production line at the Bell Textron facility.
This comes six days after the Nigerian Air Force took delivery of five new helicopters, comprising three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters and two H-125 helicopters, as part of efforts to modernise and strengthen the armed forces’ response to security threats in the country.
