NAF Boosts Counter-Terrorism Air Power with Acceptance of Three New AW109 Trekker Helicopters
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recorded another major milestone in its ongoing fleet modernisation programme with the successful completion of the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) for an additional three AW109 Trekker Type B helicopters at the Leonardo Helicopters facility in Vergiate, Italy, further strengthening its capacity to combat terrorism, insurgency and other security threats across the country.
The acceptance exercise, conducted from June 29 to July 3, 2026, involved a joint delegation from the NAF and the Federal Ministry of Defence, who carried out detailed technical inspections and flight evaluations to certify that the helicopters met all contractual and operational requirements before delivery to Nigeria.
The development underscores the Federal Government’s continued investment in strengthening Nigeria’s air power capabilities and enhancing the operational readiness of the Armed Forces to confront the nation’s evolving security challenges.
According to the NAF, the successful acceptance exercise demonstrates the steady progress of its fleet modernisation drive and reinforces the Service’s commitment to inducting only reliable, technologically advanced and mission-ready platforms capable of delivering effective air power across a broad range of military operations.
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Upon arrival and induction into service, the three AW109 Trekker Type B helicopters are expected to significantly expand the NAF’s operational capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), close air support, armed escort, combat search and rescue, as well as joint air operations alongside ground forces.
Military authorities believe the additional aircraft will improve the Air Force’s operational reach, response time and mission effectiveness in ongoing counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations across various theatres nationwide.
Commenting on the milestone, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the acquisition reflects the NAF’s resolve to stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated security threats.
“The dynamic nature of contemporary security threats demands agile, technologically advanced and mission-ready air capabilities. The successful acceptance of these additional helicopters marks another important step in strengthening the Nigerian Air Force’s capacity to deliver decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces, deny criminal elements freedom of action and enhance security across our nation,” he said.
The Air Chief reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to building a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of effectively supporting national security objectives while safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians.
The NAF also attributed the latest achievement to the sustained support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the administration’s continued investment in military capability development is enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces in addressing Nigeria’s complex security environment.
With the latest addition, the Air Force said it remains focused on expanding its operational capacity and leveraging modern air power in close collaboration with sister services and other security agencies to restore peace, preserve national unity and create a secure environment for economic growth and national development.
