The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to strengthen its combat power with the M-346 fighter aircraft programme, following high-level discussions during a strategic visit to Italy by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke.
The visit, held from January 19 to 20, included engagements with Leonardo, encompassing meetings at the Leonardo Helicopter Division aimed at enhancing defence-industrial collaboration, the NAF stated in a release by its Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
At the Leonardo Aircraft Division in Milan, Air Marshal Aneke described the M-346 programme as a significant step toward modernising the NAF’s combat capabilities. He highlighted that the aircraft would bolster precision strike operations, improve pilot training, and enhance Nigeria’s regional deterrence posture.
“The discussions underscore the priority President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, places on airpower modernisation as a key pillar of national security,” Aneke said.
During his visit to the Leonardo Helicopter Division, Aneke commended the company for its continuous support of the NAF, citing the operational effectiveness of platforms such as the AW-109 Trekker Type B helicopters in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and internal security missions. He also noted the reliable performance of other Leonardo platforms in NAF service, including the G-222, ATR-42, and various AW-109 variants, particularly in combat operations, humanitarian missions, and disaster response.
At the Aircraft Division, discussions focused on aligning the delivery schedule of the M-346 aircraft with the readiness of Nigeria’s Main Operating Base to ensure a smooth induction into service. Early training for pilots, engineers, and logisticians, as well as plans to establish a Leonardo Support Office in Nigeria, were highlighted as key measures to improve aircraft availability, reduce turnaround time, and ensure long-term sustainment of NAF platforms.
Responding, Mr. Andrea Mirteto, Senior Vice President of Sales at Leonardo Helicopter Division, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Nigeria as a strategic partner and assured timely delivery and sustained support for both the AW-109 Trekker and M-346 programmes.
Air Marshal Aneke assured Nigerians of the NAF’s determination, in collaboration with other security agencies, to address national security challenges through continued investments in modern platforms, advanced training, and strategic partnerships.
