NAF inducts five new helicopters to boost military operations

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has inducted five new helicopters into its fleet to strengthen its operational capabilities, following a formal induction ceremony presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, October 29, 2026.

The newly inducted aircraft comprise three Leonardo AW-109 Trekker B helicopters and two Airbus H-125 helicopters, marking another step in the Federal Government's efforts to modernise Nigeria's airpower capabilities and strengthen national security.

According to a statement by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the additional aircraft will expand the Service's rotary-wing fleet, improve asset availability and provide greater flexibility in supporting military operations across the country.

The three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters will strengthen the Air Force's capabilities in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), close air support, armed escort, combat search and rescue, as well as joint operations in support of ground troops.

The two Airbus H-125 helicopters will provide light-helicopter support for surveillance, tactical mobility and other operational requirements.

The NAF said the new platforms would collectively enhance situational awareness, improve responsiveness and strengthen air support for troops operating across multiple theatres.

It also emphasised the importance of sustained investment in maintenance, logistics, technical expertise and personnel training to ensure that the aircraft deliver improved mission effectiveness and operational readiness.

The ceremony was attended by the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Defence Staff, other Service Chiefs, ministers, members of the National Assembly and senior government and military officials.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, stressed the need to translate investments in modern aircraft into improved operational effectiveness through mission-focused training, effective maintenance and personnel development.

The induction represents another step in the Federal Government's efforts to strengthen the Nigerian Air Force's capacity to support military operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.