Air Force To Acquire 12 Viper Attack Helicopters From US

Federal government and the United States (US) have signed a deal with the former to acquire 12 fighter helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, led a NAF delegation to Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, USA, to sign the acquisition of the 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters for NAF.

NAF spokesperson, Air Cdre Ehimen Ejodame, said the ceremony represented an important step in the implementation of the Nigeria–United States Government defence cooperation programme and Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to modernise its armed forces.

According to him, the acquisition of the 12 helicopters reflected the strategic vision of the Federal Government of Nigeria to strengthen the nation’s defence and security architecture and provide the armed forces with the requisite platforms and capabilities to address current and emerging security threats.

Air Marshal Aneke expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his strategic leadership, unwavering support and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence and security architecture.

At the ceremony, the Air chief noted that the acquisition demonstrated the federal government’s commitment to enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces and to ensuring that NAF remains adequately positioned to fulfil its constitutional responsibilities.

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

Aneke said the programme aligned with his command philosophy of enhancing and sustaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces to realise national security objectives. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that the capabilities being acquired translate into enhanced operational effectiveness in support of national security.

The Air Chief also acknowledged the continued support and cooperation of the United States Government, Bell Textron, Programme Management Air 276 and other stakeholders involved in the AH-1Z Viper programme. He stressed that sustained defence cooperation, technical collaboration and capability development remain essential to the successful implementation of the programme, while reaffirming the NAF’s commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships and promoting professional excellence.

During the ceremony, the NAF delegation also inspected the AH-1Z Viper production line at the Bell Textron facility.

The milestone underscores the continuing commitment of the Federal Government and the NAF to developing modern airpower capabilities and strengthening strategic partnerships that support Nigeria’s national security objectives.