Nigerian Air Force Finalizes Acquisition of 12 Viper Helicopters

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has concluded an agreement to purchase 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, United States. The signing ceremony was led by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and is a result of the Nigeria-United States Government defense cooperation program.

According to a statement from the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, this acquisition is part of the Federal Government's efforts to modernize the Armed Forces and enhance the country's defense and security architecture. Air Marshal Aneke stated that the helicopters would significantly improve the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces and align with his command philosophy of maintaining a professional and mission-ready force.

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support and acknowledged the cooperation of the U.S. Government and other stakeholders involved in the program.

The NAF delegation also inspected the production line of the helicopters during their visit.