The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully completed the Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) for the first batch of three Leonardo M-346FA fighter attack aircraft in Italy, paving the way for their delivery to Nigeria as part of the service’s ongoing fleet modernisation programme.
The successful completion of the acceptance tests marks a major milestone in the acquisition process, with the three aircraft constituting the first tranche of a planned fleet of 24 M-346FA fighter attack aircraft expected to enhance the Nigerian Air Force’s operational capabilities.
Beyond certifying the aircraft for delivery, the exercise also focused on strengthening the Air Force’s long-term operational readiness through comprehensive pilot training, maintenance support, logistics planning and simulator integration.
These measures are expected to ensure the effective deployment and sustainment of the new fleet.
The acquisition forms part of the Nigerian Air Force’s broader modernisation drive aimed at enhancing air power, improving operational efficiency and boosting the country’s capacity to tackle terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other security threats.
The delivery of the first three aircraft is expected to further strengthen the Air Force’s combat and air support capabilities.
