The Federal Government has begun negotiations with the United States for the procurement of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters to boost the capability of the Nigerian Air Force(NAF).

NAF Spokesman  Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame revealed this in a statement yesterday.

 Designed and produced by America’s aerospace manufacturer, Bell Helicopter, AH-1Z Viper is the only attack helicopter in the world with fully-integrated air-to-air missile capability.

 AH-1Z Viper strikes are more lethal and missions are more survivable due to high-tech sensors that enable pilots to identify, track and assign targets—even at maximum weapon range.

The new jets are part of the   61 Nigeria expects to be delivered in 2025.

 Commodore Ejodame said in a statement that Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, led a high-level team to the U.S for a programme management review meeting regarding the purchase of the helicopters.

The four-day meeting ended on Friday in San Diego, California. It had top U.S government officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron, manufacturers of the AH-1Z helicopters.

 Commodore  Ejodame said: “At the meeting, the Chief of Air Staff conveyed sincere appreciation to the US Government for its enduring partnership,

 “The acquisition of the AH-1Z Viper helicopters will significantly enhance the Nigerian Air Force’s combat effectiveness, operational efficiency, and mission readiness.

 “We are fully committed to ensuring these platforms are delivered in the shortest possible time. Every necessary step will be taken to facilitate a seamless procurement and integration process.”

 He added that  the Chief of Air Staff later inspected   Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 (HMLA-367) and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 39 (MALS-39), both under the Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 39 at  Camp Pendleton, California

The NAF spokesman said: “ These squadrons are actively engaged in the operation and maintenance of the AH-1Z helicopter.

 “During the visit, the Chief of Air Staff had the opportunity to inspect the helicopters first-hand and engage with senior officers of the United States Marine Corps on best practices for the operation, sustainment, and logistics support of the AH-1Z platform.

 “The Chief of Air Staff said the visit has provided a unique opportunity to understand best practices for the operation, sustainment, and logistical support of the AH-1Z platform from the U.S  Marine Corps.”

 According to him, the Air Chief also reaffirmed that the NAF remains fully committed to the effective and responsible deployment of all acquired air assets in the ongoing fight against terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements threatening the peace and stability of the nation.

“Our goal is to create enduring peace while protecting innocent lives and property in line with internationally accepted rules of engagement,” the Chief of Air Staff said.

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