FG Boosts Counter-Terrorism Efforts with 34 New Fighter Jets

In its efforts to strengthen the fight against terrorism and other criminal activities, the Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed the procurement of 34 fighter jets to enhance the operational capacity of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). This initiative, part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing commitment to equipping the military, is expected to bolster the nation's defense capabilities significantly.

The first batch of the aircraft, including 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack (FGA) jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, will start arriving in the first quarter of 2025. The procurement process is currently being finalized by a team led by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, along with officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance. The team recently participated in a Programme Management Review Meeting with Leonardo S.p.A in Rome, Italy, where the jets are being manufactured.

The M-346 jet, also known as the Alenia Aermacchi, is a versatile advanced trainer and light attack aircraft. Its capabilities include precision strike, high speed, and maneuverability, making it ideal for intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. The AW-109 Trekker helicopters, known for their endurance in the battlefield, will play a critical role in counter-terrorism operations, providing rapid response to emerging threats.

Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, confirmed that the first three units of the M-346 aircraft will be delivered by early 2025, with the final batch arriving by mid-2026. The helicopters are expected to be fully delivered by early 2026.

"While in Italy, the Chief of Air Staff inspected the first batch of six M-346 jets, with three nearing completion. He also evaluated key support systems that will enhance the NAF's operational readiness," the statement from NAF revealed. The Chief of Air Staff also emphasized the importance of establishing a maintenance hub in Nigeria to ensure long-term operational support for the fleet.

The acquisition of these aircraft is part of the broader strategy of the Federal Government to improve national security. Defence Minister of State, Bello Matawalle, reiterated the government's commitment during an inspection of NAF's 119 Composite Group layout in Sokoto State, which he visited with Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu. Matawalle highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen the air force's capacity, ensuring the safety and security of citizens.

In addition to the procurement of these jets, the military has been lauded for its recent operations in the North-West region of Nigeria. Sani Shinkafi, Executive Director of the Patriots for Peace and Social Development, praised the military’s success in neutralizing numerous notorious bandits across Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Kaduna states. Shinkafi attributed this success to the synergy between security agencies and the government, which aligns with President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda to restore national security and prosperity.

As the government continues its efforts to equip and modernize the armed forces, the arrival of these fighter jets will mark a crucial step in Nigeria's battle against terrorism and other security challenges. The Nigerian Air Force, bolstered by the new fleet, is poised to enhance its ability to protect the nation's airspace and provide vital support to ground forces in the fight against insurgency.

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