NEWS
Nigerian Air Force Set for Major Firepower Boost as 12 AKSUNGUR Drones, Six T129 ATAK Helicopters Expected
The Nigerian Air Force is poised for a significant boost in its military capabilities as the country prepares to expand its fleet of armed drones and attack helicopters through a series of strategic acquisitions aimed at strengthening its aerial combat power.
The anticipated deliveries include 12 AKSUNGUR armed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), two CH-4D armed drones, and six additional T129 ATAK attack helicopters, marking a major step in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its air power and modernise its military equipment.
The acquisition of the six additional T129 ATAK helicopters will double the Nigerian Air Force’s existing fleet of the Turkish-made attack aircraft from six to 12, significantly expanding its capacity to conduct aerial operations in support of ground troops and other military missions.
The T129 ATAK is designed for attack and reconnaissance missions, offering capabilities that can support counterinsurgency operations, armed surveillance and precision strikes against hostile targets.
Meanwhile, the incoming AKSUNGUR and CH-4D armed drones are expected to strengthen Nigeria’s unmanned aerial combat capabilities, providing additional platforms for surveillance, intelligence gathering and targeted operations against security threats.
The new acquisitions will complement the Nigerian Air Force’s existing inventory of Chinese-made Wing Loong II and CH-4 armed unmanned aerial vehicles, further expanding the range of platforms available for military operations.
With the addition of the new aircraft, Nigeria is positioning itself to operate one of Africa’s largest and most modern fleets of armed unmanned combat aerial vehicles, reinforcing its capacity to monitor vast areas, gather intelligence and conduct sustained aerial operations.
The planned expansion comes amid Nigeria’s continuing efforts to strengthen its military capabilities in response to persistent security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency and other armed threats across different parts of the country.
If delivered as anticipated, the new platforms would represent a substantial reinforcement of the Nigerian Air Force’s combat and surveillance capabilities, potentially improving its operational reach and providing greater support for ongoing security operations.
The acquisitions underscore Nigeria’s broader push to modernise its air force through the introduction of additional attack helicopters and armed drones, as the country seeks to build a more capable and technologically adv
anced military.