NAF receives 5 helicopters to strengthen fight against insecurity

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken delivery of five new helicopters as the Federal Government accelerates efforts to modernize Nigeria’s air capabilities and strengthen the Armed Forces’ ability to respond effectively to contemporary security challenges.

According to the project, the platforms include three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters produced by Italy’s Leonardo Helicopters and two H-125 helicopters produced by Airbus Helicopters.
A statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, added that the three AW-109s, which are part of the 10 recently acquired by the Federal Government, were received in Lagos on 15 September 2026, while the remaining seven are expected to be delivered by the end of 2026.

Speaking on the development, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the acquisition as “another significant milestone in the Federal Government’s sustained investment in the modernization and re-equipment of the NAF”.

He noted that the new platforms would increase resource availability and improve the responsiveness of the service across multiple theaters.

“The arrival of these five helicopters provides greater flexibility in the use of air power to support ground troops in ongoing operations,” he said.

CAS expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his continued trust and commitment to the NAF.
“On behalf of the officers, airmen and women of the Nigerian Air Force, I express our deep appreciation to Mr. President for his continued support for the transformation and modernization of the service.
“His commitment is enabling us to progressively develop the capabilities needed to meet our operational responsibilities and address evolving national security challenges,” he said.

Air Marshal Aneke noted that the three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters will enhance the NAF’s capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, close air support, armed escort, combat search and rescue, as well as other joint operations in support of surface forces.

He added that the two H-125 helicopters will provide versatile and responsive light helicopter support for a variety of operational requirements, collectively expanding the Service’s flexibility and ability to respond to changing operational demands.

After their arrival, the new platforms will undergo post-delivery assembly prior to their introduction and commissioning, including the necessary technical and crew preparation processes. The CAS emphasized that the NAF’s responsibility is to ensure that the investment translates into tangible operational effects. “We will continue to prioritize employment, maintenance and logistical support so that each aircraft delivered adds measurable value to ongoing operations and the protection of lives and property of Nigerians,” he said. He added that increasing rotary wing capability would strengthen support for joint forces in countering terrorism, kidnapping and banditry, while improving the speed, range and effectiveness of air support to ground forces.