The Federal Government has taken a major step towards acquiring 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States as part of ongoing efforts to modernise the Nigerian Armed Forces and strengthen the country’s security architecture.

The development followed a signing ceremony between the Nigerian Air Force and Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, United States, according to a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, who led the Nigerian delegation, said the acquisition represented an important milestone in the NAF’s efforts to develop a more capable and mission-ready force.

Aneke said the helicopters would enhance the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces and support the military’s efforts to achieve national security objectives through improved airpower capabilities.

He said the programme aligned with his command philosophy of sustaining a highly motivated and professional Nigerian Air Force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces.

The Chief of the Air Staff also stressed that the capabilities being acquired must translate into improved operational effectiveness in support of Nigeria’s national security objectives.

Aneke expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for what he described as his strategic leadership and support for strengthening Nigeria’s defence and security architecture.

He also acknowledged the cooperation of the United States Government, Bell Textron, Programme Management Air 276 and other stakeholders involved in the AH-1Z Viper programme.

The Air Force delegation, during the visit, inspected the AH-1Z Viper production line at the Bell Textron facility as part of activities surrounding the acquisition programme.

The statement said the latest development underscored the commitment of the Federal Government and the NAF to developing modern airpower capabilities and strengthening strategic defence partnerships.

The move comes six days after the Nigerian Air Force took delivery of five new helicopters as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to expand and modernise the country’s airpower capabilities.

The five helicopters comprised three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters of Italy and two H-125 helicopters manufactured by Airbus Helicopters.