The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has achieved another significant milestone in its fleet modernisation efforts with the successful completion of a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) on an additional batch of three AW109 Trekker Type B helicopters at the Leonardo Helicopters facility in Vergiate, Italy. Conducted from 29 June to 3 July 2026 by a delegation comprising representatives of the NAF and the Ministry of Defence, the exercise highlights the Federal Government’s sustained commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s air power capabilities and enhancing the operational readiness of the Armed Forces to effectively address evolving security challenges.
The comprehensive inspections and flight evaluations undertaken during the acceptance exercise confirmed that the helicopters fully met contractual specifications and operational requirements ahead of their delivery to Nigeria. The successful exercise further underscores the steady progress of the NAF’s fleet modernisation programme and the Service’s determination to induct only reliable, mission-ready platforms capable of delivering decisive air power effects. Upon induction, the AW109 Trekker Type B helicopters will significantly enhance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, close air support, armed escort, combat search and rescue missions, as well as other joint operations in support of surface forces across various theatres of operation.
Commenting on the milestone, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, stated that the dynamic nature of contemporary security threats demands agile, technologically advanced and mission-ready air capabilities, noting that the additional helicopters will further strengthen the NAF’s capacity to deliver decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces, deny criminal elements freedom of action and enhance national security. The development further reflects the unwavering support of President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, towards strengthening the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces. As the Nigerian Air Force continues to modernise its fleet and expand its operational capacity, Nigerians can remain assured of the Service’s steadfast commitment to restoring peace, safeguarding national unity and creating a secure environment necessary for national development and economic prosperity.
