The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully completed the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) for an additional three Leonardo AW109 Trekker Type B helicopters, marking another important milestone in the Service’s ongoing fleet modernisation programme aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s counter-terrorism and national security capabilities.

The acceptance programme was conducted at Leonardo Helicopters’ production facility in Vergiate, Italy, between 29 June and 3 July 2026, by a delegation comprising representatives of the Nigerian Air Force and the Federal Ministry of Defence.

During the five-day evaluation, the delegation carried out comprehensive technical inspections, systems verification and flight assessments to ensure the helicopters fully complied with contractual specifications and operational requirements before delivery to Nigeria.

The successful completion of the Factory Acceptance Test represents another step forward in the Nigerian Air Force’s efforts to modernise its rotary-wing fleet with advanced, mission-ready aircraft capable of supporting a broad spectrum of military operations.

Once delivered and inducted into operational service, the three AW109 Trekker Type B helicopters will significantly expand the NAF’s capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), close air support (CAS), armed escort, combat search and rescue (CSAR), as well as joint operations conducted in support of land forces across Nigeria’s various operational theatres.

The aircraft are expected to play an important role in ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, providing greater operational flexibility, improved situational awareness and rapid response capabilities against terrorist groups and other armed criminal organisations.

Commenting on the successful acceptance, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, emphasised that the rapidly evolving security environment requires technologically advanced, highly responsive and mission-ready air capabilities.

He noted that the additional helicopters will further strengthen the Nigerian Air Force’s ability to deliver decisive air power in close coordination with ground forces, deny criminal elements freedom of manoeuvre and enhance national security across the country.

The acquisition also reflects the continued support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, for the modernisation of the nation’s armed forces and the enhancement of their operational capabilities.

The delivery of the additional helicopters forms part of the Nigerian Air Force’s broader fleet renewal programme, which has seen the acquisition of new combat aircraft, helicopters and special mission platforms in recent years to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

As the Nigerian Air Force continues to expand and modernise its operational capabilities, the Service reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace, protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting national development by providing effective air power in defence of the nation.