The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has advanced its airpower modernisation programme with the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, United States.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, led a NAF delegation to the Bell Textron facility for the beam-signing ceremony marking the acquisition.
The ceremony marked a significant step in Nigeria–United States defence cooperation and the Nigerian Government’s efforts to strengthen the country’s defence and security architecture through the acquisition of advanced military platforms.
Speaking at the event, Aneke expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support towards enhancing the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.
He described the acquisition as a critical component of efforts to build a more capable, professional and mission-ready Nigerian Air Force.
“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,” the CAS said.
According to him, the programme aligns with his command philosophy of sustaining a highly motivated and professional force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in support of national security objectives.
He stressed the need to ensure that the capabilities being acquired translate into improved operational effectiveness across ongoing security operations.
The CAS also commended the United States Government, Bell Textron, Programme Management Air 276 and other stakeholders for their support and collaboration in implementing the programme.
He noted that continued defence cooperation, technical collaboration and capability development remained vital to the successful delivery of the helicopters.
As part of the visit, the NAF delegation inspected the AH-1Z Viper production line at the Bell Textron facility.
The development underscores the Nigerian Government’s commitment to modernising the Armed Forces and enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to respond effectively to current and emerging security challenges.
