The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) experts, led by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, along with officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, reached the agreement during a Programme Management Review Meeting in Italy with Messrs Leonardo s.p.a.
A statement by the NAF spokesman, Air Cdre Olusola Akinboyewa, said the meeting aimed to finalise arrangements for the NAF’s acquisition of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack (FGA) jets as well as an additional 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters to the two already procured by the NAF.
He said the CAS made a strategic stopover at the Leonardo Headquarters in Rome while in Italy, where he engaged with top executives to consolidate a long-term partnership between the NAF and the company.
The team also inspected the first batch of six M-346 jets, noting that three are nearing completion, and evaluated vital support systems required to boost the NAF’s operational readiness.
The statement said CAS received updates on the delivery schedules in the review meeting, confirming that the first three units of 24 M-346 aircraft to be built for Nigeria are expected by early 2025, with subsequent deliveries running until mid-2026.
“Meanwhile, with 2 Trekkers already acquired, the additional ten are expected by early 2026,” he said.
The Air Chief recommended the establishment of a Programme Management Office to oversee the collaboration and ensure smooth project implementation.
He also stressed the need for a maintenance hub in Nigeria to provide long-term support, especially for the M-346 fleet.
As part of the visit, the Leonardo Aircraft Division put on an aerial display to showcase the M-346’s performance and advanced features.
Capable of both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, the M-346 will significantly strengthen Nigeria’s air combat capabilities.
The AW-109 will bolster combat support roles such as Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), tactical airlift, and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC).
According to the CAS Command Philosophy, the M-346 and Trekker acquisitions are critical steps towards fleet renewal, transforming the NAF for greater agility and resilience. The philosophy emphasises the optimisation of force structure and establishment for enhanced operational effectiveness
