The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reinforced its commitment to operational modernisation and strategic defence cooperation through its participation at the SAHA 2026 International Defence and Aerospace Exhibition held in Istanbul, Türkiye, from 5–9 May 2026.
Led by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the NAF delegation engaged with global defence stakeholders at one of the world’s foremost aerospace and defence exhibitions. With over 1,700 exhibitors and delegations from more than 120 countries, SAHA 2026 provided a strategic platform for the NAF to deepen international partnerships, assess emerging technologies and strengthen operational readiness amid evolving security challenges.
During the exhibition, the NAF delegation held extensive engagements with leading Turkish defence companies as well as other key industry stakeholders. Discussions focused on critical operational areas such as C-130 fleet sustainment, T-129 ATAK helicopter support, UAV acquisition and local production, flight simulation systems, air defence solutions, precision-guided weapon integration and ammunition sustainment.
The engagements also explored opportunities for technology transfer, indigenous capacity development and long-term strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing the NAF’s operational capability, technical expertise and self-reliance, particularly in support of ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations across the country.
As the global security environment continues to evolve, the importance of advanced technology, sustainable logistics support and robust international defence partnerships remains central to mission success.
The operational engagements and strategic insights gained from SAHA 2026 will further strengthen the NAF’s ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations through improved fleet serviceability, enhanced precision strike capability and expanded indigenous technical capacity.
The participation further demonstrates the Service’s unwavering commitment to building a modern, agile and mission-ready air force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s airspace while effectively supporting joint and multi-domain operations in line with national security objectives.
