The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Tuesday began a five-day meeting with officials of the United States Government and Bell Textron Company in the first Programme Management Review (PMR) to discuss progress made so far on the supply of the AH-1Z attack helicopters to the NAF.
Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, said in a statement that all processes for the delivery of the aircraft “remains on track.”
The AH-1Z attack helicopters were procured for the Air Force by the Federal Government.
AVM Gabkwet said that Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, was represented by Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde, at the meeting which also reviewing the progress made so far regarding the manufacture of the aircraft, ensuring a smooth transition as well as provide technical guidance to the NAF.
The statement noted that “this collaboration demonstrates the assurance and strong partnership between Nigeria and the U.S. in enhancing the country’s air power capabilities.”
Speaking during the meeting, Air Vice Marshal Olatunde noted that the PMR meeting underscores the impending delivery of the AH-1Z attack helicopters to boost NAF’s close air support and ground attack capabilities while also enhancing its modernization efforts.
He also stated that the AH-1Z Helicopters, when inducted into NAF Order of Battle, will surely bolster its firepower and operational capabilities, particularly in counterterrorism and counter insurgency operations.
Speaking earlier, the US Government AH-1Z Program Management Office team leader, Mr Kevin Stone, noted that the collaboration between the NAF and the US military was a testament to their shared commitment to regional stability, peace and security, adding that the successful implementation of PMR is expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s ability to tackle security challenges and ensure the safety of its citizens.
A major area of discourse was the follow-up sustainment case, which is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and reduces downtime through comprehensive support services.