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Nigerian Air Force Acquires Two New Diamond-62 Aircraft
Nigerian Air Force Acquires Two New Diamond-62 Aircraft
In a significant development to enhance ongoing air operations, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken delivery of two additional Diamond-62 (DA-62) aircraft at a ceremony held in Ilorin, Kwara State.
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), expressed his satisfaction during the ceremony. He noted that the process leading to the reception of these two aircraft began approximately two years ago when the Federal Government (FG) allocated funds for the acquisition of four Diamond-62 aircraft for NAF.
As per a statement by Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information, the first two aircraft were delivered between February and July 2023. These initial deliveries were promptly deployed to support operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in conflict-affected areas within the country.
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Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the importance of discipline and professionalism among the air and ground crews responsible for the new aircraft. He urged them to ensure the aircraft’s proper maintenance and operation according to the manufacturer’s best practices. He also encouraged them to leverage the aircraft’s capabilities to enhance NAF’s operational efficiency.
Air Marshal Abubakar lauded the FG for its commitment to strengthening NAF and other services. The arrival of the two additional DA-62 aircraft underlines the government’s dedication to bringing peace to previously troubled areas. Furthermore, he mentioned that NAF is on the verge of acquiring additional platforms, including M346FA aircraft, AW109 Trekker light attack helicopters, AH-1Z Super Cobra, T-129 ATAK helicopters, and the King Air 360i Beechcraft aircraft.
Kwara State’s Executive Governor, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, commended NAF and other security agencies for their tireless efforts to address the nation’s security challenges. He expressed gratitude to CAS for designating Ilorin as the home base of the DA-62, emphasizing the city’s peaceful and conducive environment. He pledged unwavering support from his administration to NAF and other security agencies in their mission to safeguard lives and properties.
Air Vice Marshal Tajudeen Yusuf, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, noted that the DA-62’s acquisition is based on its ability to conduct robust missions in support of combat operations. The decision to place the DA-62 under the 303 Medium Airlift Group in Ilorin is expected to invigorate the unit and enhance its operational activities significantly.
