Nigeria is set to acquire 24 Italian-made M‑346FA fighter jets in a €1.2 billion deal, marking the largest military aircraft purchase in West Africa.
The jets will be supplied by Italian aerospace firm Leonardo S.p.A. and form part of Nigeria’s ongoing effort to modernize the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
Officials say the acquisition will enhance air combat and training capabilities amid ongoing security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and communal conflicts.
The M‑346FA is a multirole aircraft capable of pilot training, tactical reconnaissance, close air support, and air interdiction missions.
Each jet can carry multiple weapons and sensors, providing the NAF with a versatile addition to its fleet.
Delivery will be phased, with the first jets expected in early 2026 and the full fleet scheduled for completion by mid-2026.
The contract also includes long-term maintenance and logistical support, with Leonardo responsible for servicing.
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Defence analysts describe the acquisition as a major upgrade for Nigeria’s air force, replacing ageing aircraft and boosting overall operational readiness.
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, then Chief of Air Staff, called the jets a key step in building a modern, capable air force.
The procurement is part of Nigeria’s broader military modernization strategy, which includes upgrading existing aircraft and expanding air capabilities to meet diverse security threats nationwide.