By Agbonavbare  Victor Omoregbe 

The Nigerian Air Force has taken a major step towards the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters following a beam signing ceremony with Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, United States.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, led a Nigeria Air Force delegation to the ceremony, which marked a significant milestone in the implementation of the Nigeria-United States Government defense cooperation programme.

According to a statement on Monday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the acquisition is part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to modernise the Armed Forces and strengthen the country’s defence and security architecture.

Speaking at the ceremony, Aneke said the acquisition would enhance the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The Chief of Air Staff said the programme aligned with his command philosophy of sustaining a highly motivated and professional force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces to achieve national security objectives.

Aneke expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and unwavering support and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence and security architecture.

 NAF takes delivery of five new helicopters to boost anti-terror operations

He also acknowledged the continued support and cooperation of the United States Government, Bell Textron, Programme Management Air 276 and other stakeholders involved in the AH-1Z Viper programme.

The NAF delegation also inspected the AH-1Z Viper production line at the Bell Textron facility during the visit.

The statement said the milestone underscored the commitment of the Federal Government and the NAF to developing modern airpower capabilities and strengthening strategic partnerships in support of Nigeria’s national security objectives.

This is coming six days after the Nigerian Air Force took delivery of five new helicopters as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to modernise the country’s airpower capabilities and strengthen the Armed Forces’ response to security threats.

The platforms comprise three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters of Italy and two H-125 helicopters manufactured by Airbus Helicopters.