The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is expecting 51 new platforms to expand counterinsurgency and terrorist operations throughout the nation, according to Air Vice Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff.
According to a statement released on Friday by Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, the CAS made this comment to officers and soldiers during his first operational visit to NAF units in Makurdi, Benue State.
He stated that the inclusion of more platforms will improve training, the use of air power, and air power projection, News About Nigeria reports.
Two Agusta 109 Trekker Multi-role helicopters, two Beechcraft King Air 360 aircraft, three Diamond DA-62 surveillance aircraft, and six T-129 ATAK helicopters are among the platforms expected, according to the CAS.
Other possible purchases include 24 M-346 assault aircraft, 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, and two CASA-295 medium airlift/surveillance aircraft.
He continued by saying that the purchases show the Federal Government’s dedication to providing the NAF with the tools it needs for safe training operations and quick airpower deployment to address the safety issues facing the country.
Air Vice Marshal Abubakar also said that the NAF will continue to improve as part of a strategy to swiftly address the security issues facing the country.
“While the NAF augments its airpower measures and approaches, it will also continue to promote seamless interoperability of equipment and joint force employment by the various services,” he said.
To meet the high standards of Nigerians in the Armed Forces, as well as to restore peace and security and maintain a safe and prosperous Nation, he also urged the soldiers to work with other services and security agencies.
