NAF completes acceptance of first M-346 fighter attack aircraft, strengthens airpower capabilities
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has completed the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) for the first batch of three M-346 Fighter Attack (FA) aircraft, marking another major milestone in its fleet modernisation programme and boosting Nigeria's airpower capabilities.
The acceptance exercise was conducted at the Leonardo Aircraft Division facility in Venegono, Italy, by a joint delegation comprising officials of the Nigerian Air Force and the Ministry of Defence. The exercise successfully fulfilled all contractual acceptance requirements ahead of the aircraft's delivery to Nigeria.
According to the NAF, the successful Factory Acceptance Test confirms that the three aircraft have met all contractual, technical and airworthiness standards required for delivery.
Beyond the acceptance process, the delegation also held discussions with Leonardo Aircraft Division on pilot and maintenance training, logistics support and long-term fleet sustainment. The team further inspected advanced simulation and ground-based training systems expected to strengthen indigenous training capacity and improve operational readiness for the effective deployment of the M-346 fleet.
Commenting on the development, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the M-346 aircraft's combination of advanced pilot training and frontline combat capability will significantly improve the Air Force's ability to produce combat-ready aircrew while enhancing precision strike, close air support, air interdiction and other combat missions in response to Nigeria's evolving security challenges.
The Nigerian Air Force said the acquisition underscores the Federal Government's commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthening the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces through the procurement of modern, technologically advanced and mission-ready platforms.
The NAF reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria's territorial integrity, supporting joint military operations and protecting lives and property through responsive, professional and decisive airpower.
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