Nigerian Air Force Completes Acceptance Tests for Three Trekker Helicopters

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has completed a factory acceptance test for three Trekker Type B helicopters at Leonardo Helicopters’ facility in Vergiate, Italy.

The test was conducted from 29 June to 3 July by a delegation comprising representatives of the NAF and the Ministry of Defence.

According to a statement by NAF’s spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Friday, the exercise provided the Nigerian delegation with the opportunity to conduct comprehensive inspections and flight evaluations to ensure the helicopters fully complied with contractual specifications and operational requirements before their delivery to Nigeria.

“The exercise also reaffirmed the steady progress being made under the NAF’s fleet modernisation programme, reflecting the Service’s determination to induct only reliable and mission-ready platforms capable of delivering decisive air power effects across the full spectrum of operations,” he said.

Ejodame said the exercise underscored the Federal Government’s sustained commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s air power capabilities and enhancing the operational readiness of the Armed Forces in addressing the nation’s evolving security challenges.

According to the NAF’s spokesperson, when inducted, the helicopters would significantly enhance the Service’s capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, close air support, armed escort, combat search and rescue, as well as other joint air operations in support of surface forces.

“Their addition to the NAF order of battle is expected to improve responsiveness, operational reach and mission effectiveness in the ongoing counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and anti-banditry campaigns across the various theatres of operation nationwide,” Ejodame said.

He said the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has commended the test, saying that “The dynamic nature of contemporary security threats demands agile, technologically advanced and mission-ready air capabilities.”

He added that the test of the helicopters marks another important step in strengthening NAF’s capacity to deliver “decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces, deny criminal elements freedom of action and enhance security across our nation.”