Nigeria Strengthens Military Capabilities: Secures 24 Fighter Jets, Helicopters, As Defence Minister Inspects Fleet In Italy
By Musiliu Opeyemi
Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru has conducted an inspection of the ongoing production of aircraft and helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) at Leonardo S.p.A.’s defense manufacturing facilities in northern Italy. His visit forms part of a broader delegation accompanying President Bola Tinubu to the AQABA Process meeting.
During his tour of Leonardo’s Helicopters Division in Vergiate and Aircraft Division in Venegono, Mr. Badaru reviewed significant milestones in the assembly of critical platforms for the NAF.
At the Helicopters Division, the minister evaluated the progress on ten AW109 Trekker attack helicopters being manufactured for Nigeria. Out of these, three helicopters have been completed and are ready for delivery. A further three are expected to be completed by the end of 2025, while the final four are slated for delivery in early 2026.
In addition, Mr. Badaru inspected the production of M-346 Fighter Attack Jets, noting that six units are currently at advanced stages of production, with three already undergoing flight tests and the remaining three scheduled for testing soon.
“The 24 aircraft will be delivered in four batches, complete with weapons, tools, spare parts, and logistical support,” stated a spokesman for the defence minister.
Mr. Badaru expressed his satisfaction with the quality of work being carried out and commended the professionalism of Leonardo’s engineers. He emphasized that these acquisitions reflect the Tinubu administration’s commitment to modernizing the armed forces and enhancing Nigeria’s defense partnerships.
