The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed a deal with an Italian defence company for the supply of 24 M-346 master aircraft in a deal worth around €1.2 billion.
The Aermacchi M-346 Master is a family of military twin-engine transonic advanced jet trainers and light combat aircraft.
The first flight of the M-346 was performed in 2004. The type is currently operated by the air forces of Italy, Israel, Singapore, Greece, Turkmenistan and Poland. Since 2016 the manufacturer became Leonardo-Finmeccanica as Alenia Aermacchi merged into the new Finmeccanica, finally rebranded as Leonardo in 2017.
According to the manufacturers, “the combat capable M-346FA can perform ground attack, homeland defence and air policing missions and reconnaissance. Various munitions and stores can be carried, including IRIS-T or AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, various air-to-surface missiles, anti-ship missiles, free-fall and laser-guided bombs and rockets, a 12.7 mm gun pod, reconnaissance and targeting pods, and electronic warfare pods; weapon aiming is performed using the Helmet Mounted Display and the multifunction displays.”
NAF Spokesperson, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, who confirmed the acquisition, said: “ Confirmed. This has been mentioned severally by the NAF at various forums.”
An initial report by Military Africa on November 7, 2023 said the aircraft is expected to be delivered to the NAF in 2024 adding that it would replace the ageing Dassault Alpha jet A/E.
Stating that the acquisition would enhance Nigeria’s aerial capabilities and bolster its defence strategies, the report noted that several prominent defence companies had been approached to provide the necessary munitions, missiles, precision-guided bombs, and rockets for the platforms.
According to the report: “The Nigerian Air Force’s forthcoming acquisition of 24 M-346 Master aircraft from Italy’s Leonardo is generating considerable interest in the defence industry. With discussions already underway regarding the selection of armament for these advanced aircraft, several prominent defence companies have been approached to provide the necessary munitions, missiles, precision-guided bombs, and rockets.
“The deal, estimated to be worth around €1.2bn, marks a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to modernise its air force. The M-346 Master aircraft will replace the ageing Dassault Alpha jet A/E, enhancing the country’s aerial capabilities and bolstering its defence strategies. The aircraft is expected to be delivered to the Nigerian Air Force in 2024.
“The selection of armament for these aircraft is crucial to their operational effectiveness, and Nigerian defence authorities have engaged with several renowned companies to fulfill these requirements.”
The report emphasized that “with this purchase, the NAF will have the most powerful air force in the region, especially since it also has a fleet of armed Chinese and Turkish drones.“
