NAF to acquire 24 fighter jets, helicopters, UAVs to combat terrorism

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to fast-track the purchase of 24 M-346 fighter ground-attack aircraft, 10 AW109 Trekker helicopters, and additional unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to bolster its operational capacity in the fight against terrorists and bandits.

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, disclosed this during a Christmas luncheon with personnel of the air component of Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 in Kaduna on Thursday.

Aneke commended NAF personnel for their dedication, noting that while many Nigerians were celebrating Christmas with loved ones, air force personnel remained on duty, ensuring the nation’s peace and security.

“Beyond defending our airspace, which lies at the heart of the NAF’s mandate, you are safeguarding the foundations of our society and securing the future of our nation,” Aneke said.

“Your resilience, sacrifice, and bravery make it possible for millions of Nigerians to enjoy this season in peace.”

He also paid tribute to fallen personnel, describing them as true heroes whose sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Aneke outlined his command philosophy of maintaining a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in coordination with surface forces to achieve national security objectives.

He stressed that military action alone is insufficient, highlighting the role of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in addressing the root causes of insurgency.

“By focusing on social justice, economic empowerment, and equitable development, the agenda complements our non-kinetic efforts and lays the foundation for lasting peace and security,” he said.