NAF, US Officials Review Progress on Attack Helicopter Acquisition

Senior officers of the Nigerian Air Force have held strategic talks with officials of the United States Government and representatives of Bell Textron to accelerate the delivery of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters for Nigeria.

The discussions took place during a Programme Management Review meeting led by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, held between January 5 and 6 in San Diego, California.

The meeting focused on reviewing the status of the acquisition programme and ensuring adherence to agreed timelines, budgetary provisions, and performance benchmarks. Aneke said the review was aimed at strengthening oversight, accountability, and delivery efficiency.

He expressed appreciation to the US Government and Bell Textron for their cooperation and transparency, noting that the structured engagement reflects the Air Force’s commitment to discipline and results-driven programme execution.

According to the Air Chief, the acquisition represents a major enhancement of the Nigerian Air Force’s operational capacity and underscores the long-standing defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States.

He assured Nigerians that the helicopters would significantly improve mission readiness, enable precise air operations, reduce collateral damage, and enhance support for ground forces in addressing security challenges.