Assuring the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, regarding the timely delivery of six M-346 fighter aircraft expected in Nigeria before the end of 2024, Mr. Claudio Sabatino, Vice President of Messrs Leonardo, reiterated his company’s commitment.
This batch of six M-346 fighter aircraft, expected to be the first to reach the Nigerian Air Force, is scheduled for delivery by the year’s end.
During a visit to the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters on Wednesday, 17 April 2024, Mr. Sabatino conveyed this information.
As previously reported, the Federal Government is acquiring 24 M-346 fighter aircraft from Messrs Leonardo of Italy. This move marks a significant step in the Nigerian Air Force’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet and enhance operational effectiveness.
The arrival of the aircraft in Nigeria will occur in four sets of six each, with the initial set expected before the end of 2024.
In a statement on Friday confirming the development, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Edward Gabkwet, revealed that Air Chief Abubakar commended this move.
Gabkwet mentioned, “Mr. Sabatino also highlighted the necessity of continued engagement between the NAF and his company to finalize various aspects of the project, including pilot and engineering training commencement.”
Assuring that aircraft fleet maintenance will not pose a challenge upon completion due to a binding agreement for Leonardo’s maintenance support for at least 25 years, Mr. Claudio noted that the aircraft fleet’s manufacturing has made significant progress with great skill and expertise.
The CAS expressed appreciation for the long-term maintenance support from Leonardo, recognizing its value in ensuring operational readiness of the entire fleet. Reflecting on the journey so far, Air Marshal Abubakar acknowledged the challenges overcome and expressed optimism for the future partnership.
Recognizing the operational impact of the M-346 fighter aircraft, Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized its role in enhancing training capabilities and operational effectiveness in various mission scenarios.
Highlighting the possibilities in close air support, Air Interdiction, tactical reconnaissance, and Advanced Pilot Training capabilities of the M-346 fighter aircraft, he outlined new prospects for NAF’s operational versatility.
Suggesting the formation of a dedicated Program Management Office to oversee all collaboration facets, the CAS reiterated the importance of Leonardo’s physical presence in Nigeria as a maintenance hub for their African clientele, advocating for close coordination to achieve shared goals for fleet delivery.
Both parties agreed on the necessity of frequent dialogue and collaboration, scheduling future meetings to discuss logistics, maintenance protocols, and configuration requirements in detail,” the statement mentioned.