DEFENCEWEB
The Nigerian Air Force was expected to take delivery of its first M-346 combat planes by the end of 2024 from Italy’s Leonardo.
The air force is acquiring 24 M-346 fighter aircraft, a significant step in its “ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet as well as bolster its operation effectiveness,” it said. The jets are expected to be delivered in four groups of six each. The deal was announced in 2022.
A Leonardo official said details on pilot and technician training still needed to be worked out. There is a 25-year binding agreement for Leonardo to support maintenance. Nigerian Air Force staff members said the M-346s will be used for training, close air support, air interdiction and tactical reconnaissance.
The Aermacchi M-346 Master is a family of military twin-engine advanced jet trainers and light combat aircraft. Italy, Israel, Poland and Singapore are among the countries that use the planes. The M-346 is powered by two Honeywell F124 turbofan engines. In addition to training, the M-346 can be used for combat missions such as close air support and air policing duties.
In 2023, the Nigerian Air Force said it had been effectively using new assets in combat, which were instrumental in defeating terrorists and insurgents. Battlefield successes against Boko Haram and other terrorist groups were attributed to the newly acquired JF-17 Thunder aircraft, A-29 Super Tucano aircraft and attack drones.