Nigeria has completed the acquisition of 24 M-346FA fighter jets from Italy, marking a historic milestone as the first West African country to make such a large-scale purchase of advanced military aircraft.
The deal, finalized in November 2023, is valued at approximately €1.2 billion and is considered the largest military aircraft acquisition in West Africa to date.
As part of the contract, Nigeria will receive 25 years of logistical support, with Leonardo holding exclusive rights for maintenance and technical operations.
The M-346FA is a highly versatile fighter jet, equipped with seven external hardpoints capable of carrying both air-to-air and ground-to-air munitions. It also supports sight pods linked to helmet-mounted displays, enhancing targeting accuracy and situational awareness.
Production of the first six aircraft is underway in Italy, with three jets scheduled for delivery in 2025 and full delivery expected by mid-2026.
At the time of the agreement, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, emphasized that the acquisition would strengthen pilot training capabilities and enhance operational effectiveness across diverse mission scenarios.
The addition of the M-346 jets is expected to significantly boost the Nigerian Air Force’s readiness, particularly in tackling security threats in the Northeast, where forces continue to combat Boko Haram and Islamic State insurgents.
Beyond counter-insurgency operations, the fighter jets are also anticipated to support efforts against kidnapping and banditry affecting other regions of the country, enhancing the overall security architecture.
The acquisition raises questions about Nigeria’s growing air power: will these advanced fighter jets transform the country’s capacity to combat terrorism and organized crime? Readers are encouraged to share their opinions in the comment section.
