Officials from the AH-1Z Programme Management Office of the United States Government and Bell Textron Company have assured the Nigerian Air Force that the delivery schedule for the AH-1Z attack helicopters remains unchanged.
In December 2023, the United States Department of Defense confirmed the sale of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and other military equipment to Nigeria.
According to a report on the US Defense website, the helicopters were slated for completion by June 2024.
In a statement on Tuesday, the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Edward Gabkwet, confirmed that US government officials have assured them of the timely delivery of the helicopters.
“The Nigerian Air Force has been assured that the delivery dates for the AH-1Z attack helicopters purchased by the Federal Government remain on track,” Gabkwet said.
This assurance was given during a Program Management Review meeting held at NAF Headquarters, where Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde, represented Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.
“The five-day meeting, which began on July 16, 2024, aims at reviewing the progress made so far regarding the manufacture of the aircraft, ensuring a smooth transition, and providing technical guidance to the NAF,” Gabkwet added.
Air Vice Marshal Olatunde emphasized that the impending delivery of the AH-1Z attack helicopters will significantly bolster the NAF’s close air support and ground attack capabilities, enhancing its overall modernization efforts.
US Government AH-1Z Programme Management Office team leader, Mr. Kevin Stone, highlighted the collaboration’s importance in promoting regional stability and security.
He expressed confidence that the successful implementation of the PMR will enhance Nigeria’s ability to address security challenges effectively.
