Nigeria to Acquire 24 M-346 Fighter Jets from Italy's Leonardo in Modernization Effort

Nigeria has announced plans to acquire 24 M-346 fighter jets from Italy's Leonardo in a significant move to upgrade its air force and combat insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry across the country.

The acquisition will take place in four batches of six jets each, with the first batch expected to arrive in Nigeria before the end of 2024.

The decision to acquire these fighter jets comes as Nigeria aims to bolster its military capabilities and address various security challenges, particularly in the northeast region where groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State affiliate operate. The Nigerian government has stated its readiness to purchase the jets, and Leonardo will provide a minimum of 25 years of maintenance support.

Why this matters: The acquisition of the M-346 fighter jets is a vital step in Nigeria's efforts to strengthen its air force and combat the ongoing security threats posed by insurgent groups and criminal activities. This modernization initiative highlights the government's commitment to enhancing the country's defense capabilities and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

Leonardo's Vice President, Claudio Sabatino, visited the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) headquarters in Abuja and assured the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, of the company's commitment to supply the aircraft on time. Sabatino also discussed the maintenance support agreement for the aircraft fleet, which will span 25 years.

The CAS has acknowledged the challenges overcome and expressed optimism for the future of the partnership, recognizing the dual role of the M-346 in enhancing training capabilities and operational effectiveness. "The M-346 fighter jets are expected to enhance the Nigerian Air Force's training capabilities and operational versatility, with capabilities in close air support, air interdiction, and tactical reconnaissance," Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar stated.

Both parties have agreed on the importance of regular dialogue and collaboration to ensure the expeditious delivery of the fleet. They have also agreed to establish a dedicated Program Management Office to oversee the collaboration and maintain regular dialogue to tackle logistics, maintenance, and configuration requirements.

The deal, worth around €1.2 billion, is a significant investment in Nigeria's defense sector. The M-346 is a light fighter-trainer aircraft that has been acquired by Nigeria in its more recent, armed M-346FA fighter version. The acquisition of these fighter jets is part of Nigeria's broader efforts to modernize its military and address the security challenges it faces, including insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry.

Key Takeaways

• Nigeria to acquire 24 M-346 fighter jets from Italy's Leonardo in 4 batches.
• Acquisition aims to bolster Nigeria's military capabilities against insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry.
• Leonardo to provide 25-year maintenance support for the aircraft fleet.
• M-346 jets to enhance Nigeria's training capabilities and operational versatility.
• Deal worth around €1.2 billion is part of Nigeria's military modernization efforts.