Air Force to receive 6 M-346 fighter aircraft

Claudio Sabatino, the Vice President of Messrs Leonardo, has guaranteed Air Mashal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, of his company’s unwavering dedication to deliver six M-346 fighter aircraft expected in Nigeria before the end of year 2024.

The Nigerian Air Force is expecting its first batch of aircraft, six M-346 fighter aircraft, by the end of the year.

Sabatino stated this when he paid a visit to Nigerian Air Force Headquarters on Wednesday, 17 April 2024.

It was reported that the Federal Government is acquiring 24 M-346 fighter aircraft from Messrs Leonardo of Italy in a move that marked a significant step in Nigeria Air Force’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet as well as bolster its operation effectiveness.

The aircraft is anticipated to arrive Nigeria in four trenches of six each, with the first trench predicted to arrive before the end of these year 2024.

Confirming the development in a statement on Friday, Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, stated that Abubakar, the Air Chief, applauded the move.

Gabkwet said, “While thanking the CAS for the warm reception accorded him and his entourage, Mr Sabatino also stated that further engagement between the NAF and his Company would be necessary to conclude other aspects of the project such as the commencement of pilots and engineering training.

“Speaking further, Claudio assured the CAS that when finally completed, the maintenance of the aircraft fleet would not constitute a challenge as there is a binding agreement for Leonardo’s maintenance support for a minimum of 25 years.

“The assurance of long-term maintenance support provided by Leonardo was particularly met with appreciation by the CAS, who recognized the inherent value of such commitment in ensuring the sustained operational readiness of the entire aircraft fleet.”