Nigerian Air Force expands fleet with new helicopters and Viper production

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken delivery of five new helicopters as part of a broader federal initiative to modernize airpower and combat terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. The recent delivery includes three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters from Italy’s Leonardo Helicopters and two H-125 helicopters from Airbus Helicopters. The AW-109s arrived in Lagos on September 15, 2026, as part of a larger order of ten aircraft, with the remaining seven expected by the end of 2026. The H-125s had been delivered previously.

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, stated that these platforms will increase asset availability and enhance responsiveness across multiple operational theaters. The AW-109 Trekker B models are intended for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), close air support, armed escort, and combat search and rescue missions. The H-125 helicopters will provide versatile light air support.

In a separate development related to Nigeria’s military procurement, Bell Textron has commenced production of the first AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter for the Nigerian Air Force. This production, based at the Amarillo Assembly Center in Texas, is part of a U.S. Foreign Military Sales program to provide 12 aircraft, with completion expected by early 2029.