NAF RECEIVES TWO ADDITIONAL AIRCRAFT
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The Nigerian Air Force has received two additional Diamond-62 aircraft as part of its efforts to intensify ongoing air operations against insecurity in the country.
The new aircraft were received at a ceremony held in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Wednesday.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet.
In his remarks during the ceremony, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, noted that the process that culminated in the arrival of the two additional aircraft began about two years ago when the Federal Government appropriated funds for the acquisition of four Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF.
According to him, “Out of the four aircraft, the first two aircraft were delivered between February and July 2023 while the remaining two were being received today.”
Abubakar continued by saying that the two DA-62 aircraft that were acquired earlier this year have since been sent to the operating rooms to assist with ongoing efforts to restore stability and peace in the nation’s troubled regions.
While urging the air and ground crew that would handle the aircraft to eschew discipline and professionalism, Abubakar admonished them to also “ensure the proper maintenance and operation of the aircraft in line with recommended best practices by the Original Equipment Manufacturer.”
Additionally, he pleaded with them to make the most of the aircraft’s capabilities in order to improve NAF’s operational effectiveness.
The statement read in parts, “In paying glowing tribute to the FG for its commitment to revamping the fortunes of the NAF and other Services, the CAS also noted that the receipt of the two additional aircraft confirms the sincerity and commitment of the government towards ensuring peace returns to hitherto troubled spots.
“He went on to add that the NAF will in no distant time take delivery of additional platforms that include the M346FA aircraft, AW109 Trekker light attack helicopter, AH-1Z Super Cobra, T-129 ATAK helicopters and the King Air 360i Beechcraft aircraft.”
In his remarks, the governor of Kwara State, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, commended the NAF for its efforts to help the country overcome its many security problems, along with those of other security agencies.
Abdulrahman expressed his gratitude to the CAS for choosing Ilorin as the DA-62’s base of operations, which is a reflection of the state’s tranquilly and favourable environment.
The statement added, “He then assured the CAS of his administration’s unwavering support to the NAF and other security agencies in their onerous tasks of safeguarding lives and properties.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, AVM Tajudeen Yusuf, noted that the “acquisition of the DA-62 aircraft stems from its ability to carry out robust missions in furtherance of combat operations.
“He then added that domiciling the DA-62 under 303 Medium Airlift Group in Ilorin will no doubt go a long way in breathing life into the unit while enhancing its operational activities.”
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