The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to significantly enhance its combat capability with the advancement of discussions on the M-346 fighter aircraft programme, following a strategic visit to Italy by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke.
The visit, which took place between January 19 and 20, formed part of broader engagements with Leonardo, including high-level meetings at the company’s Helicopter and Aircraft Divisions, aimed at deepening defence-industrial cooperation.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Engaging the Leonardo Aircraft Division in Milan, Aneke described the M-346 programme as a major leap in renewing the NAF’s combat power, noting that the aircraft would enhance precision strike operations, advanced pilot training, and Nigeria’s regional deterrence posture.
According to him, the engagements underscore the priority placed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on airpower modernisation as a key pillar of national security.
At the Leonardo Helicopter Division, the CAS commended the company for its sustained support to the NAF, highlighting the operational impact of platforms such as the AW-109 Trekker Type B helicopters, which he said have been instrumental in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and internal security operations across the country.
Aneke also cited the strong operational record of Leonardo platforms in NAF service, including the G-222, ATR-42, and various AW-109 variants, noting their reliability in combat missions, humanitarian operations, and disaster response.
Discussions at the Aircraft Division focused on aligning delivery timelines for the M-346 aircraft with the readiness of the designated Main Operating Base in Nigeria, to ensure seamless induction into service.
The CAS further stressed that early training of pilots, engineers, and logisticians, alongside plans to establish a Leonardo Support Office in Nigeria, would enhance aircraft availability, reduce turnaround time, and strengthen long-term sustainment of NAF platforms.
In response, Mr Andrea Mirteto, Senior Vice President, Sales, Leonardo Helicopter Division, reaffirmed Leonardo’s commitment to Nigeria as a strategic partner, assuring of timely delivery and sustained support under both the AW-109 Trekker and M-346 programmes.
Air Marshal Aneke reassured Nigerians of the NAF’s resolve, in collaboration with other security agencies, to confront the nation’s security challenges through continuous investment in modern platforms, advanced training, and strategic partnerships.
