NAF Takes Delivery Of Five New Helicopters As FG Steps Up Airpower Upgrade

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken delivery of five new helicopters as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to modernise the country’s airpower capabilities and strengthen the military’s response to evolving security challenges.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement, saying the newly acquired platforms comprise three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters and two H-125 helicopters.

According to Ejodame, the three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters were received in Lagos on September 15, 2026, as part of 10 units recently acquired by the Federal Government. The remaining seven helicopters are expected to be delivered before the end of the year.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described the acquisition as another milestone in the Federal Government’s ongoing investment in the modernisation and re-equipment of the NAF.

Aneke said the new platforms would increase aircraft availability and enhance the Service’s ability to respond to security operations across multiple theatres.

He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for what he described as his sustained confidence in and commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Air Force.

The newly delivered helicopters are expected to undergo post-delivery assembly before their formal induction and commencement of operations.

The latest acquisition forms part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to expand and modernise the NAF fleet in response to the country’s evolving security needs.