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The Nigerian Air Force has received five new helicopters to strengthen air operations and support efforts against terrorism, kidnapping and banditry.
The Nigerian Air Force has taken delivery of five new helicopters as part of the Nigerian government’s efforts to modernise its airpower and strengthen military operations against security threats.
The new platforms comprise three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters of Italy and two H-125 helicopters produced by Airbus Helicopters.
The NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehinmen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday. Ejodame said the three AW-109 helicopters were part of 10 recently acquired by the Nigerian Government. The three arrived in Lagos on September 15, 2026.
He added that the remaining seven helicopters were expected to arrive before the end of 2026, while the two H-125s had already been delivered.
The statement said the latest delivery was part of ongoing efforts to improve the Nigerian Armed Forces’ capacity to respond to contemporary security challenges.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described the acquisition as “another significant milestone in the Federal Government’s sustained investment in the modernisation and re-equipment of the NAF.” Aneke said the helicopters would increase aircraft availability and improve the service’s response across different theatres of operation.
“The arrival of these five helicopters provides greater flexibility in the employment of airpower in support of ground troops in ongoing operations,” he said.
He said the AW-109 Trekker B helicopters would strengthen the NAF’s capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, close air support, armed escort and combat search and rescue.
Aneke added that the H-125 helicopters would provide versatile light helicopter support for various operational needs. The Air Chief also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his support for the modernisation of the service.
“On behalf of the officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force, I express our profound appreciation to Mr President for his sustained support for the transformation and modernisation of the Service,” he said.
“His commitment is enabling us to progressively build the capabilities required to meet our operational responsibilities and confront the nation’s evolving security challenges.”
The NAF said the newly delivered helicopters were undergoing post-delivery assembly before their induction and deployment.
The process includes technical checks and crew-readiness activities.
Aneke said the service would prioritise proper maintenance and logistics support to ensure the aircraft remained available for operations.
“We will continue to prioritise effective employment, maintenance and logistics sustainment so that every aircraft delivered adds measurable value to ongoing operations and the protection of the lives and property of Nigerians,” he said.
He added that the increase in the NAF’s rotary-wing capability would strengthen support for joint forces conducting operations against terrorism, kidnapping and banditry.
The NAF said the acquisition was expected to improve the speed, reach and effectiveness of air support provided to troops on the ground.
