Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reached another milestone in its ongoing fleet modernization programme with the successful completion of the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) for the first batch of three M-346 Fighter Attack aircraft.
The acceptance process was carried out at the Leonardo Aircraft Division facility in Venegono, Italy, where the aircraft underwent comprehensive technical and performance evaluations before approval.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Force confirmed that the aircraft—designated NAF 01, NAF 02, and NAF 03—successfully satisfied all contractual, technical and airworthiness requirements.
The successful certification clears the aircraft for delivery and eventual induction into the Nigerian Air Force inventory, further expanding the Service’s fleet of modern combat platforms.
Commenting on the development, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described the acquisition as a significant boost to the Air Force’s operational readiness.
He said, “The M-346 Fighter Attack aircraft is another strategic step in strengthening the Nigerian Air Force’s operational capability.”
According to him, “The aircraft’s unique combination of advanced pilot training and frontline combat capability will significantly enhance the Service’s ability to generate combat-ready aircrew while expanding its capacity to conduct precision strike, close air support, air interdiction and other air combat missions in response to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.”
The Air Force noted that the successful completion of the Factory Acceptance Test reflects the Federal Government’s sustained commitment to improving the operational strength of the Armed Forces.
According to the statement, the development also demonstrates the commitment of the administration of President Bola Tinubu to equipping the military with modern, technologically advanced and mission-ready platforms capable of addressing the country’s evolving security needs.
