The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Wednesday received two additional Diamond-62 (DA-62) aircraft into its inventory for deployment in ongoing air operations.
The aircraft were received into service at a brief but colourful ceremony in Ilorin, Kwara State by Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.
The first two DA-62 aircraft delivered are registered as NAF260 and NAF261 and the final two aircraft are NAF262 and NAF263. These arrived in Nigeria from Austria on October 6, 2023, according to FlightRadar24 data.
Diamond Aircraft describe the DA 62 MPP (Multi Purpose Platform) as offering low operating cost with low noise signature (a specialized on top exhaust system blends fresh air with engine exhaust and utilizes the cowling to provide shielding of exhaust noise and heat). The aircraft has an endurance of up to ten hours thanks to two economical Austro Engine AE330 engines that run on JET A1 or diesel fuel (they each develop 180 hp).
The DA 62 MPP cabin provides for two pilots (equipped with Garmin G1000 NXi glass cockpits) and one or two mission system operators (mission equipment can be fitted in the hold or luggage compartment – useful load is 710 kg). Diamond Aircraft says the DA62 MPP has been specially designed for carrying multi-functional aerial sensors, like electro-optical/infrared cameras, land and sea radars, communications intelligence solutions, airborne laser scanners or large format digital aerial cameras etc. A Universal Nose carries cameras up to 60 kg, the belly is designed for maritime or land radar applications up to 50 kg, and a satellite communications pod houses L-, Ku-, or Ka Band antennas.
A carbon fibre airframe offers virtually unlimited airframe life and is not subject to corrosion, even when operated in saline and humid environments. “Together, fuel efficiency and the unlimited airframe life combine for extremely low direct operating costs, making the DA62 MPP the most cost-efficient special mission aircraft in its class,” Diamond Aircraft said.
In operation since 2016, the DA62 MPP platform is aimed at law enforcement operations, search and rescue missions, land and sea border surveillance, disaster management, infrastructure and environmental monitoring, airport landing systems calibration and more.
According to a statement by NAF Spokesperson, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet: “In its bid to add impetus to ongoing air operations, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) earlier today, 11 October 2023, received 2 additional Diamond-62 (DA-62) aircraft at a brief but colourful ceremony held in Ilorin, Kwara State.
“In his remarks during the ceremony, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, noted that the process that culminated into the reception of the 2 additional aircraft began about 2 years ago when the Federal Government (FG) appropriated funds for the acquisition of 4 Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF.
“According to him, out of the 4 aircraft, the first 2 aircraft were delivered between February and July 2023, while the remaining 2 were being received today. Speaking further, Air Marshal Abubakar noted that the 2 DA-62 aircraft received earlier in the year have since been deployed to the operating theatres in support of the ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in troubled areas within the country.
“While urging the air and ground crew that would handle the aircraft to eschew discipline and professionalism, Air Marshal Abubakar admonished them to also ensure the proper maintenance and operation of the aircraft in line with recommended best practices by the Original Equipment Manufacturer. He also implored them to leverage the capabilities available on the aircraft to enhance NAF’s operational efficiency.
“In paying glowing tribute to the FG for its commitment to revamping the fortunes of the NAF and other Services, Air Marshal Abubakar also noted that the receipt of the 2 additional DA-62 aircraft confirms the sincerity and commitment of the Government towards ensuring peace returns to hitherto troubled spots.
“He went on to add that the NAF will in no distant time take delivery of additional platforms that include the M346FA aircraft, AW109 Trekker light attack helicopter, AH-1Z Super Cobra, T-129 ATAK helicopters and the King Air 360i Beechcraft aircraft.
“In his remarks at the occasion, the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, commended the NAF for its efforts, alongside other security agencies towards ridding the nation of its numerous security challenges.
“He also expressed his appreciation for the CAS for making Ilorin the homebase of the DA-62, which is indicative of the peaceful and conducive nature of the State. He then assured the CAS of his administration’s unwavering support to the NAF and other security agencies in their onerous tasks of safeguarding lives and properties.
“Earlier in his welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal Tajudeen Yusuf, noted that the acquisition of the DA-62 aircraft stems from its ability to carry out robust missions in furtherance of combat operations. He then added that domiciling the DA-62 under 303 Medium Airlift Group in Ilorin will no doubt go a long way in breathing live into the unit while enhancing its operational activities.”