By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken a major step in its airpower modernisation programme with the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, United States.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, led a NAF delegation to the Bell Textron facility, where a beam-signing ceremony was held to mark the acquisition.
The development further strengthens Nigeria’s defence cooperation with the United States and forms part of the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise the Armed Forces and improve the country’s capacity to respond to security threats.
Speaking during the ceremony, Aneke thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support towards improving the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.
He described the acquisition of the AH-1Z Viper helicopters as an important milestone in efforts to build a more capable and mission-ready Nigerian Air 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,” the CAS said.
Aneke said the programme was consistent with his command philosophy of maintaining a highly motivated and professional force capable of delivering decisive airpower in support of Nigeria’s national security objectives.
He also stressed the importance of ensuring that the new capabilities translate into improved operational effectiveness in ongoing security operations across the country.
The Chief of the Air Staff commended the United States Government, Bell Textron, Programme Management Air 276 and other stakeholders for their support and collaboration in advancing the helicopter acquisition programme.
He said sustained defence cooperation, technical collaboration and continuous capability development would remain essential to the successful delivery and effective deployment of the helicopters.
During the visit, the NAF delegation also inspected the AH-1Z Viper production line at the Bell Textron facility.
The acquisition is part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and enhance the Armed Forces’ ability to respond to current and emerging security challenges.
