The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to bolster its operational capacity with the acquisition of 49 new advanced aircraft by the end of 2026, according to the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.
Speaking on Wednesday at the opening of the 2025 Aircraft Engineering Conference at NAF Headquarters in Abuja, Air Marshal Abubakar said the expansion is part of efforts to modernize the force and improve air power delivery.
Themed “Enhancing Aircraft Serviceability in the NAF through Strong Maintenance Culture and Strategic Partnerships,” the conference brought together top NAF engineers and aviation experts to discuss best practices in aircraft maintenance and operational readiness.
The CAS listed the incoming aircraft as including three CASA 295 transport planes, 10 AW-109 Trekker Type B helicopters, 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, and 24 M-346 fighter jets. These high-tech platforms, he noted, will demand advanced maintenance procedures and technical expertise.
This new procurement follows the delivery of 15 aircraft over the past two years, such as six T-129 ATAK helicopters, two AW-109 Trekker Type A helicopters, three Beechcraft King Air aircraft, and four Diamond 62 reconnaissance planes.
“These are sophisticated platforms that require cutting-edge, data-driven maintenance for optimal performance,” Abubakar said, urging NAF personnel to adopt innovative engineering solutions.
He emphasized that as NAF expands its fleet, there must be a corresponding boost in technical capacity, logistics, and maintenance infrastructure to support sustained operations.
“In the past two years, our operational capabilities have grown significantly, but we must match that growth with strong support systems to remain effective in safeguarding our national security,” he added.
The Air Chief also disclosed that NAF has made substantial investments in spare parts, logistics, and ground support equipment, with a goal of ensuring full serviceability of all aircraft platforms by Q4 2025.
Also addressing the conference, Chief of Aircraft Engineering, Air Vice Marshal A.I. Amodu, described aircraft engineering as central to NAF’s mission, stating that the fast-changing security landscape requires agile and responsive maintenance structures.
He said the conference offers an important platform for developing forward-looking strategies and nurturing a culture of engineering excellence that supports operational success.
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