Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken another major step in strengthening its counter-terrorism and national security operations with the successful factory acceptance of three additional AW109 Trekker Type B helicopters in Italy.
The helicopters successfully completed factory acceptance tests at Leonardo Helicopters’ facility in Vergiate between June 29 and July 3, 2026. The exercise was conducted by a joint delegation made up of officials from the Nigerian Air Force and the Federal Ministry of Defence.
The development forms part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to modernise the NAF fleet and improve the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces in responding to Nigeria’s changing security challenges.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the successful acceptance of the aircraft reflects the government’s sustained investment in enhancing Nigeria’s air power capabilities.
Speaking on the milestone, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the evolving security environment requires modern, flexible and mission-ready air assets capable of responding effectively to emerging threats.
According to him, “The dynamic nature of contemporary security threats demands agile, technologically advanced and mission-ready air capabilities.”
He added that “The successful acceptance of these additional helicopters marks another important step in strengthening the Nigerian Air Force’s capacity to deliver decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces, deny criminal elements freedom of action and enhance security across our nation.”
The successful completion of the acceptance process also highlights the steady implementation of the Nigerian Air Force’s fleet modernisation programme, which is focused on acquiring reliable platforms capable of supporting a wide range of military operations.
With the induction of the additional AW109 Trekker helicopters, the Air Force is expected to further improve its ability to provide close air support, conduct reconnaissance missions and respond rapidly to counter-terrorism, anti-banditry and other internal security operations across the country.
