Nigeria has stepped up efforts to upgrade its air combat capability, with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) leading negotiations on the acquisition and induction of the M-346 combat ground attack aircraft.
The push follows an engagement between the NAF and Italian aerospace firm Leonardo in Milan, Italy between January 19 and 20, 2025.
These programs were led by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Sunday Aneke, who described the M-346 program as a significant leap in renewing the NAF's combat capability.
He said the aircraft will significantly enhance precision strike operations, improve pilot training outcomes and strengthen Nigeria's regional deterrent posture.
According to him, the success of the program will depend on carefully synchronized aircraft delivery timelines and seamless induction into operational service.
According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodem, the Nigerian delegation included Permanent Secretaries of the Ministries of Defense and Finance as well as other senior government officials and top NAF officials, reflecting the priority placed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on airpower modernization as a central pillar of national security.
Aneke said the association provided an opportunity to assess the company's advanced technological capabilities and further strengthen the long-standing institutional collaboration.
He commended Leonardo for its professionalism and continued support to the NAF, noting that modern and agile platforms such as the AW-109 Tracker Type B helicopters are playing a vital role in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and internal security operations across Nigeria.
He highlighted the operational track record of Leonardo platforms already in NAF service, including the G-222 transport aircraft, ATR-42 maritime patrol aircraft and various AW-109 helicopter variants.
According to CAS, these platforms have delivered credible performance not only in combat operations but also in humanitarian assistance, disaster response and other national support operations.
Aneke emphasized that timely delivery of aircraft, spare parts and ground support equipment, along with comprehensive training packages, is essential to rapidly achieve operational readiness and maintain mission effectiveness.
He warned that delays in logistics or training could undermine the full benefits of modern platforms, especially in a security environment that demands constant readiness.
“At the Leonardo Aircraft Division, the discussion particularly focused on the M-346 combat ground attack aircraft programme, which the CAS described as a major milestone in the ongoing renewal of the NAF’s combat fleet. He said the aircraft will strengthen Nigeria’s precision strike capability, while also serving as an advanced training platform that bridges the gap between basic flight training and frontline combat operations,” the statement said.
CAS underlined the importance of aligning the aircraft delivery program with the preparation of the designated main operating bases in Nigeria to ensure smooth induction into service.
He also stressed the need for initial and comprehensive training for pilots, engineers and logistics specialists, noting that human capability development is as important as hardware acquisition.
Furthermore, Eneke called for the establishment of a Leonardo Support Office in Nigeria, saying this will improve aircraft availability, reduce maintenance time, enhance local technical capacity and strengthen the long-term sustainability of both existing and future NAF platforms.
He said the proposal is in line with the President Bola Tinubu administration’s emphasis on self-reliance, operational efficiency and sustainable defense capability.
Responding on behalf of Leonardo, Senior Vice President, Sales, Leonardo Helicopters Division, Andrea Miretto, appreciated the visit and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Nigeria as a valued strategic partner.
He assured that Leonardo is fully dedicated to the timely delivery and maintenance of the platforms under the AW-109 Tracker and M-346 programs as well as expanding defense cooperation with the NAF.
Also read: Nigerian Air Force says security concerns forced crew to land in Burkina Faso
Aneke reassured Nigerians that the Air Force, working closely with other branches of the armed forces and security agencies, remains determined to implement the mandate of President Tinubu to decisively deal with security challenges across the country.
He said continued investment in modern platforms, training and international partnerships is aimed at building a more capable, responsive and resilient air force.
According to him, a strong NAF will be in a better position to support joint operations, protect lives and property and contribute to creating a secure environment necessary for national development and economic growth.
