Nigeria Set to Acquire 24 Italian M-346FA Fighter Jets in $1.2bn Air Force Upgrade

Nigeria is on the brink of completing one of its most significant military aviation acquisitions in decades, as it moves closer to taking delivery of 24 M-346FA fighter jets and 10 AW-109 helicopters from Italian aerospace and defence company Leonardo S.p.A.

The deal, valued at approximately $1.2 billion, represents a major upgrade to Nigeria’s air combat and rotary-wing capabilities and underscores the country’s ongoing military modernisation drive. According to defence industry sources, deliveries under the agreement, which was concluded last year, are now nearing finalisation.

The acquisition will significantly enhance the operational strength of the Nigerian Air Force, particularly in areas such as air support, counterinsurgency operations, and pilot training. The M-346FA is a multirole light fighter aircraft designed for both combat missions and advanced training, making it a versatile addition to Nigeria’s air fleet. The AW-109 helicopters, meanwhile, will boost mobility, reconnaissance, and rapid response operations.

Beyond the aircraft themselves, the agreement includes long-term maintenance, training, and logistical support to be provided by Leonardo, ensuring sustained operational readiness over the coming years. The deal also reflects a deepening defence partnership between Nigeria and Italy, with Leonardo playing a central role in Nigeria’s air power expansion strategy.

Nigeria’s interest in the M-346 platform is not new. Defence reports dating back to 2021 had already identified the country as planning to acquire up to 24 of the jets as part of efforts to replace ageing aircraft in its inventory. However, financing arrangements, regulatory approvals, and detailed negotiations only gained clearer momentum between 2023 and 2024.

With deliveries now close to completion, the programme marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s push to modernise its armed forces and strengthen national security through improved air superiority and rapid deployment capabilities.