NAF takes delivery of five new helicopters amid airpower upgrade
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has received five new helicopters as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to modernise the country’s airpower and strengthen military operations.
The platforms comprise three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters of Italy and two H-125 helicopters produced by Airbus Helicopters.
The three AW-109 helicopters, part of a 10-aircraft acquisition, arrived in Lagos on September 15, 2026. The remaining seven are expected before the end of the year, while the two H-125 helicopters had been delivered earlier.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the new platforms would increase aircraft availability and improve the NAF’s ability to support ground troops across multiple operational theatres.
He said the AW-109 helicopters would strengthen capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, close air support, armed escort and combat search and rescue, while the H-125s would provide versatile light-helicopter support for various missions.
The helicopters are currently undergoing post-delivery assembly and technical and crew-readiness processes ahead of their induction into service.
Air Marshal Aneke said the NAF would prioritise effective deployment, maintenance and logistics support to ensure the new aircraft contribute meaningfully to ongoing operations against terrorism, kidnapping and banditry.
The development marks another step in the Federal Government’s efforts to expand the NAF’s rotary-wing fleet and enhance the speed, reach and effectiveness of air support for joint military operations.
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