The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully completed the acceptance process for three additional AW109 Trekker Type B helicopters at Leonardo Helicopters’ facility in Vergiate, Italy.
The event marks another major step in its ongoing fleet modernisation programme. The Factory Acceptance Test (FAT), conducted between June 29 and July 3, 2026, confirmed that the aircraft met all contractual and operational requirements ahead of their delivery to Nigeria.
The acceptance exercise was carried out by a delegation from the Nigeria Air Force and the Ministry of Defence.
According to the NAF, the new helicopters will strengthen its operational capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), close air support, armed escort, combat search and rescue, and joint operations with ground forces in the fight against terrorism, insurgency and other security threats.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the acquisition reflects the Nigeria Air Force’s commitment to building a modern, mission-ready fleet capable of responding to the country’s evolving security challenges.
He noted that the additional helicopters will improve the Air Force’s ability to support troops on the ground, deny criminal groups freedom of operation and enhance national security.
The NAF also acknowledged the continued support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in strengthening the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces, reaffirming its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and restoring peace across the country.
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