Nigerian Air Force to receive 50 new aircrafts in 2026

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to receive 50 new aircrafts before the end of 2026 as part of its significant expansion and modernization.

According to Defense News Nigeria, the Air Force’s new fleet will include three CASA 295, a new generation of tactical airlifter designed for transporting troops/paratroopers and equipment.

It also includes a Squadron (12 helicopters) of AH-1Z Viper attack which is currently operated by only three countries in the world, the United States (U.S), Bahrain and Czech Republic.

The Defense News said Nigeria will be the fourth country in the world to operate the Viper.

Included in the fleet are 24 (2 Squadron) M-346FA multi-role fighters. The M-346FA will bolster NAF’s air combat capabilities, particularly in air to air and air to ground missions.

With the phasing out of the Alpha jet, the M-346 FA will form the backbone of the Nigerian Air Force.

Last year, NAF received 6 T-129 ATAK helicopters, two AW109 helicopters, 3 King Air 350i and four Diamond DA-62 ISR aircraft.