NIGERIA TO RECEIVE 24 M-346 FIGHTER JETS IN €1.2BN DEFENCE DEAL WITH ITALY
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
Nigeria is set to bolster its air power with the acquisition of 24 M-346 fighter jets from Italy following a major defence agreement signed between the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and Italian aerospace firm Leonardo.
The deal, concluded in November 2023, is valued at approximately €1.2 billion and is regarded as the largest military aircraft procurement in West Africa to date. In addition to the aircraft supply, the contract includes 25 years of comprehensive logistical support, with Leonardo retaining exclusive responsibility for maintenance operations.
According to defence sources, the first batch of six M-346 aircraft is currently under production in Italy. Three of the jets are expected to be delivered to Nigeria in 2025, while the remaining aircraft will arrive in phases, with full delivery projected to be completed by mid-2026.
The M-346 is a multi-role advanced trainer and light combat aircraft designed to enhance pilot training and operational readiness. It features seven external hardpoints capable of carrying a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, as well as advanced targeting and sight pods integrated with helmet-mounted display systems.
Speaking at the time of the purchase, then Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said the aircraft would significantly strengthen the NAF’s training capacity while also improving its operational effectiveness across multiple mission profiles.
He noted that the jets would provide a modern platform for pilot training and contribute to Nigeria’s ability to respond more effectively to security threats.
The acquisition forms part of Nigeria’s broader military modernisation drive aimed at addressing persistent security challenges across the country, particularly the insurgency in the North-East involving Boko Haram and Islamic State affiliates, as well as the growing threats of banditry and kidnapping in other regions.
With the arrival of the M-346 jets, the Nigerian Air Force is expected to enhance its combat readiness, intelligence gathering, and rapid response capabilities, strengthening its role in safeguarding national security.
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