Nigeria to Acquire 24 M-346 Fighter Jets from Italy in $1.2 Billion Deal

Nigeria has entered into a significant deal with Italian defense company Leonardo to purchase 24 M-346 fighter jets, valued at approximately $1.2 billion. The agreement includes a 25-year logistics support package, with Leonardo holding exclusive rights for maintenance and operation of the aircraft.

The jets are expected to be delivered between 2025 and mid-2026, aiming to bolster Nigeria's training capabilities and operational effectiveness, particularly in responding to security challenges like Boko Haram and ISIS in the northeast region. This acquisition is part of Nigeria's broader efforts to strengthen its security architecture.