NAF completes deal to acquire 12 Viper Attack Helicopters from US

The Nigerian Air Force has completed an agreement to purchase 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, United States, with a beam signing ceremony.

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sunday Aneke, led the NAF delegation at the ceremony, which is an outgrowth of the Nigerian-United States Government defense cooperation program.

According to a statement on Monday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the acquisition is part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to modernize the Armed Forces and strengthen the country’s defense and security architecture.

Speaking at the ceremony, Aneke said the acquisition would enhance the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He said, “The acquisition of the AH-1Z Viper helicopter is an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to build a more capable, professional and mission-ready Nigerian Air Force.”

CAS said the program is aligned with its command philosophy of maintaining a highly motivated and professional force capable of delivering decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces to achieve national security objectives.

He also emphasized the importance of ensuring that acquired capabilities are translated into increased operational effectiveness in support of national security.

Aneke expressed his appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his “strategic leadership, unwavering support and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defense and security architecture.”

He also acknowledged the continued support and cooperation of the United States Government, Bell Textron, Program Management Air 276 and other stakeholders involved in the AH-1Z Viper program.

CAS said, “Continued defense cooperation, technical collaboration and capability development remain critical to the successful implementation of this program.”

The NAF delegation also inspected the AH-1Z Viper production line at the Bell Textron facility during the visit.

This comes days after the Nigerian Air Force took delivery of five new helicopters as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to modernize the country’s air power capabilities and strengthen the Armed Forces’ response to security threats.

The platform consists of three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters of Italy and two H-125 helicopters manufactured by Airbus Helicopters.