The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has revealed that the Nigerian Air Force has acquired 63 brand-new aircraft over the past three years.
Abubakar disclosed this on Wednesday at the NAF Training, Operations, and Safety Seminar for 2024, held in Abuja. He noted that the remarkable renewal of the NAF fleet and improved operational readiness were achieved with the support of President Bola Tinubu.
“In the past year, the NAF has taken delivery of 12 advanced aircraft, including two KA-360i aircraft, four DA-62 aircraft, four T-129 helicopters, and two AW-109 Trekker helicopters,” he said.
The CAS added that the service is expecting further deliveries before the end of the year, including two additional T-129 helicopters and one KA-360i aircraft.
Looking ahead to 2025, the NAF anticipates the arrival of 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, 24 M-346FA aircraft, three CASA-295 aircraft, and 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters.
“This totals 64 brand new aircraft over about three years. Additionally, we have procured 12 pre-owned A-Jet aircraft from the French Air Force through SOFEMA. Of these, six will be restored to operational status, while the remaining six will serve as spares for the Alpha Jet fleet,” Abubakar stated.
(Punch)
