The acquisition of AH-1Z Viper helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force has been described as a major milestone in the country’s ongoing military modernisation programme.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, made the remarks during a visit to Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, United States, where he led a Nigerian Air Force delegation for the beam signing ceremony.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued Monday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Aneke said the acquisition of the 12 helicopters represented an important step in implementing the Nigeria-United States Government defence cooperation programme.
He added that the deal formed part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to modernise its armed forces and strengthen the country’s defence and security architecture.
According to the Chief of the Air Staff, the new platforms are expected to provide the armed forces with additional capabilities to respond to current and emerging security threats.
“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.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for what he described as strategic leadership, support and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence capabilities.
Aneke said the acquisition was consistent with his command philosophy of building and sustaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that the capabilities being acquired translate into improved operational effectiveness and support national security objectives.
The Chief of the Air Staff also said the NAF must be capable of delivering decisive airpower effects while working in synergy with surface forces.
The AH-1Z Viper helicopters are therefore expected to form part of the capabilities available to the service as it continues efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Aneke acknowledged the continued support and cooperation of the United States Government, Bell Textron, Programme Management of Air 276 and other stakeholders involved in the Viper programme.
He said sustained defence cooperation, technical collaboration and capability development would remain essential to the successful implementation of the programme.
The acquisition, he added, underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and maintain a more effective and mission-ready Nigerian Air Force.
