By Opeyemi Adelakun
The Nigerian Air Force has taken delivery of five new helicopters as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to strengthen the military’s airpower and response to terrorism, kidnapping and banditry.
The newly delivered platforms comprise three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters of Italy and two H-125 helicopters produced by Airbus Helicopters.
The NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehinmen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
According to him, the three AW-109 helicopters arrived in Lagos on September 15 as part of 10 aircraft recently acquired by the Federal Government.
The remaining seven AW-109 helicopters are expected to be delivered before the end of 2026, while the two H-125 helicopters had been delivered earlier.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described the acquisition as a significant step in the Federal Government’s continuing investment in the modernisation and re-equipment of the Air Force.
He said the additional platforms would increase aircraft availability and give commanders greater flexibility in supporting troops across multiple operational theatres.
“The arrival of these five helicopters provides greater flexibility in the employment of airpower in support of ground troops in ongoing operations,” Aneke said.
The AW-109 Trekker B helicopters are expected to strengthen the NAF’s capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, close air support, armed escort and combat search and rescue operations.
The H-125 helicopters, meanwhile, are expected to provide light helicopter support for a range of operational requirements.
Aneke said the increased rotary-wing capability would enhance the Air Force’s support for joint military operations against terrorism, kidnapping and banditry.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the ongoing modernisation of the service.
“His commitment is enabling us to progressively build the capabilities required to meet our operational responsibilities and confront the nation’s evolving security challenges,” he said.
The newly delivered helicopters are currently undergoing post-delivery assembly ahead of their induction and operational deployment.
The process includes technical checks and crew-readiness procedures to ensure the platforms are prepared for service.
Aneke said the NAF would also prioritise maintenance and logistics support to ensure the aircraft remain operationally available.
“We will continue to prioritise effective employment, maintenance and logistics sustainment so that every aircraft delivered adds measurable value to ongoing operations and the protection of the lives and property of Nigerians,” he said.
The Air Force said the additional helicopters were expected to improve the speed, reach and effectiveness of air support for troops operating against security threats across the country.
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