Nigeria Nears Delivery of 24 Italian Fighter Jets and 10 Attack Helicopters

Nigeria

Nigeria is approaching a major milestone in its long‑running effort to modernize its Air Force, with the first delivery of 24 advanced Italian‑made fighter jets and 10 attack helicopters expected to begin in 2025, according to Nigerian military and industry officials. The acquisition, part of a broader defense modernization initiative aimed at strengthening national security, represents one of the largest military aircraft procurements by a West African nation in recent years.

The aircraft, manufactured by Italy’s Leonardo S.p.A., include M‑346 Fighter Ground Attack jets, advanced twin‑engine aircraft capable of both air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground missions, and AW‑109 Trekker helicopters, versatile rotary‑wing aircraft designed for a range of combat and support roles. Delivery is expected to proceed in stages through mid‑2026, with the first jets slated to arrive in early 2025 and the helicopters following by early 2026.

Officials say the deal, valued at approximately €1.2 billion, includes not only the airframes but also logistics support, spare parts, training and long‑term maintenance arrangements. Nigerian defense leaders have emphasized the importance of building local capacity to sustain the fleet, including plans to establish a dedicated maintenance hub in Nigeria that could support operations and regional partners.

The acquisition is intended to enhance Nigeria’s ability to confront a range of security challenges across the country, from counter‑insurgency operations in the northeast to efforts against armed gangs and criminal networks in other regions. Air Force commanders have described the new jets as force multipliers that will improve surveillance, rapid response and precision strike capabilities, while the helicopters are expected to bolster tactical airlift, combat search and rescue and medical evacuation missions.

Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff, has led high‑level delegations to Italy to inspect production facilities and coordinate delivery schedules with Leonardo officials. During visits to the company’s facilities near Rome, Nigerian military officials observed the construction of the jets and helicopters and received updates on progress toward the delivery timeline.

The expanded fleet comes amid sustained investments in Nigeria’s defense sector under President Bola Tinubu, whose government has increased defense spending in recent years to address persistent threats from insurgent groups, banditry and other security concerns. Analysts say the new aircraft will significantly improve Nigeria’s air power projection and operational flexibility at a time of evolving regional threats.

If the delivery schedule holds, the influx of Italian aircraft will mark a significant upgrade for the Nigerian Air Force, transforming its operational capabilities and signaling the country’s commitment to maintaining a modern and responsive defense posture.