Counter-Terrorism: Nigeria to Receive 24 M-346 Jets, 10 Trekker Helicopters

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to bolster its counter-terrorism capabilities by sending a team of experts to Italy, led by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar. The team is set to finalise the procurement of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack (FGA) jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, in collaboration with the Italian aerospace firm, Leonardo S.p.A.

The delegation, which includes officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, participated in a Programme Management Review Meeting to conclude the acquisition of the military platforms. These advanced aircraft are part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to enhance its counter-terrorism operations and overall military strength.

The M-346 jet, also known as the Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master, is a cutting-edge trainer and light attack aircraft designed for precision strikes, high-speed maneuverability, close air support, and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations. Meanwhile, the AW-109 Trekker helicopter, also known as the AW169 or AW189, provides significant advantages in military operations due to its battlefield endurance and rapid response to emerging threats.

President Bola Tinubu has repeatedly emphasized his commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces to enable them to fulfill their constitutional duties, particularly in addressing Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges. This latest procurement aligns with that vision.

According to a statement released by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) spokesman, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, on Sunday, October 13, the first batch of three M-346 jets is expected to arrive in Nigeria by early 2025, with subsequent deliveries extending until mid-2026.

The statement added: “While in Italy, the Chief of Air Staff visited Leonardo’s headquarters in Rome, where he met with senior executives to consolidate a long-term partnership between NAF and the company. He also inspected the first batch of six M-346 jets, noting that three are nearing completion, and assessed the key support systems necessary to enhance NAF’s operational readiness.”

During the review meeting, updates on delivery schedules were provided, confirming that the first units of the 24 M-346 aircraft for Nigeria will arrive by early 2025, with deliveries continuing through mid-2026. Two AW-109 Trekker helicopters have already been acquired, and the additional 10 units are expected to be delivered by early 2026.

The Air Chief also recommended the establishment of a Programme Management Office to oversee the collaboration and ensure the smooth implementation of the project. He emphasized the importance of creating a maintenance hub in Nigeria to provide long-term support, particularly for the M-346 fleet.

The Leonardo Aircraft Division also conducted an aerial demonstration to showcase the performance and advanced capabilities of the M-346, which is designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. According to NAF, this acquisition will significantly boost Nigeria’s air combat strength.

The AW-109 helicopters, on the other hand, are expected to enhance the NAF’s ability to conduct combat support operations, including Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), tactical airlift, and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC).

These acquisitions represent key steps toward the renewal and expansion of Nigeria’s military fleet, positioning the Air Force to better tackle evolving security threats across the country.