By Harriet Tornguvan
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has led a high-level engagement in the United States aimed at accelerating the delivery of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), in a move to strengthen the Service’s operational capability.
The engagement which took place in San Diego, California, involved a Programme Management Review meeting with senior officials of the United States Government and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron, the helicopter manufacturers. The meeting focused on expediting production timelines and ensuring the timely delivery of the platforms critical to Nigeria’s air combat capability.
Air Marshal Aneke described the acquisition as a key component of his Command Philosophy of building and sustaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready Air Force capable of delivering decisive airpower in synergy with ground forces to achieve national security objectives.
Speaking during the meeting, the CAS expressed appreciation to the US Government and Bell Textron for their cooperation, professionalism and transparency in the execution of the programme.
He said the structured review underscored the NAF’s emphasis on programme discipline, accountability and results-oriented execution.
According to him, the AH-1Z helicopter programme goes beyond a mere platform upgrade, reflecting the depth of defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States. He noted that the partnership is founded on mutual trust, shared values and a common commitment to regional and global security.
Additionally, Air Marshal Aneke assured the US team of his administration’s commitment to ensuring the helicopters are delivered within the shortest possible time. He also charged the programme management team to work proactively to meet production timelines and budgetary requirements without compromising standards.
The CAS further expressed gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Air Force. He said the acquisition would significantly enhance the NAF’s combat capability, operational efficiency and mission readiness.
He added that the advanced capabilities of the AH-1Z helicopters would enable the NAF to conduct precise operations, minimise collateral damage and provide timely support to ground forces, thereby safeguarding lives and property in affected communities.
Air Marshal Aneke reassured Nigerians of the Air Force’s commitment to confronting terrorism and other criminal threats with professionalism, restraint and accountability, while sustaining public trust and confidence in its operations.
