The vice-president of Leonardo Africa sales, Claudio Sabatino, has recently visited the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) headquarters to reinforce the Italian aerospace industry’s dedication to delivering M-346 fighter jets promptly to Nigeria. In a meeting with Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the chief of air staff, Sabatino stressed the significance of the partnership between Leonardo and NAF in enhancing Nigeria’s military prowess. The acquisition of the M-346 Master aircraft marks a major advancement for the Nigerian Air Force, showcasing the nation’s dedication to strengthening its military strength and safeguarding its national security.
Sabatino expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome and recognized the efforts of the NAF in creating a positive atmosphere for working together. He emphasized the advancements in the aircraft fleet’s production process and assured Air Marshal Abubakar of Leonardo’s commitment. Notably, Leonardo pledged to provide ongoing maintenance support, which was praised by Air Marshal Abubakar for its contribution to maintaining operational readiness over time. In high recognition of this partnership, the Air Marshal suggested creating a specialized Program Management Office to manage every aspect of the cooperation.
Operational versatility of the NAF will be enhanced.
Modernization efforts of the Nigerian military will reach a new level with the addition of the M-346 fighter aircraft. The partnership between Leonardo and the NAF is set to bring six aircraft by the end of 2024, opening up a new chapter of enhanced capabilities and operational flexibility for Nigeria’s air defence system. Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the versatile capabilities of the M-346 fighter aircraft, adding that its ability to enhance training and operational effectiveness in various mission scenarios.
Additionally, the introduction of the M-346 fighter aircraft brings new possibilities for the Nigerian Air Force in terms of close air support, Air Interdiction, tactical reconnaissance, and Advanced Pilot Training capabilities. These aircraft are set to replace the Alpha Jet and L-39ZA “Albatros” planes for various operational tasks, highlighting an enhanced operational versatility for the NAF. During the visit, Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the importance of Messr Leonardo’s establishment in Nigeria as a maintenance hub for their numerous African clients.
M-346 is equipped with nine weapon suspension points.
He stressed the importance of working closely together and harmonizing efforts to meet mutual goals for the prompt delivery of the fleet. Looking ahead, both sides agreed on the significance of consistent communication and teamwork, while also planning upcoming meetings to discuss specific logistics, maintenance procedures, and configuration needs. This lays the groundwork for a successful partnership that aims to strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities and promote regional stability. Arrival of the M-346FA or M346LFFA would elevate Nigeria’s aviation technology to new heights, surpassing even the capabilities of the JF-17 fighters.
In terms of combat, the M-346 features a Grifo-346 radar for targeting air and ground enemies as well as identifying friend or foe. The two-person crew is equipped with 6 LCD screens and a standard HOTAS control system, enabling them to control all functions seamlessly without needing to remove their hands from the controls. The aircraft is equipped with nine weapon suspension points strategically placed at the tips of the wings for air-to-air missiles. When it comes time for the aircraft to be deployed, the selection of weaponry will play a vital role in its performance across different missions.
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Currently, Nigeria is heavily investing in modernizing its air force with the procurement of advanced equipment and aircraft such as the Chinese drones CH-3, CH-4, and Wing Loong II, Brazilian A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, Russian Mi-35 and Mi-17 helicopters, and Italian Leonardo AW109 helicopters. Additionally, M-346 Master planes are being considered for acquisition to enhance the country’s aerial capabilities. Bell Textron recently signed a $455 million agreement with the Nigerian Government for the supply of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, supporting Nigeria’s military modernization efforts and strengthening their ability to combat terrorism and insurgency.
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