President Bola Tinubu has given the green light for the acquisition of 12 attack helicopters to bolster the capabilities of the Nigerian Army.
This announcement came during the inaugural Nigerian Army Aviation Seminar in Abuja, as revealed by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The newly acquired MD 530F Cayuse attack helicopters are poised to enhance the Nigerian Army’s aviation unit, with the primary aim of improving the agility, responsiveness, and overall effectiveness of ground troops during various operations.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja emphasized that these helicopters would not only benefit the Nigerian Army but also significantly contribute to the operational success of joint and coalition troops.
He clarified that the army aviation unit, although separate from the Nigerian Air Force, typically operates with helicopters and light support fixed-wing aircraft.
In acknowledging the President’s support, he expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s commitment to fulfilling the Nigerian Army’s vision of a well-equipped aviation unit. This unit will play a crucial role in supporting ground troops during tactical and operational engagements.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja also highlighted the experiences of several other nations, such as the United States, Pakistan, Colombia, Egypt, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Uganda, which have effectively utilized similar capabilities in their military operations.
“The army aviation arms of these countries have shown effectiveness in countering contemporary security threats and providing vital support to ground forces.
“In view of the need to realise this, and in its bid to appropriately respond to contemporary and emerging security threats, the Nigerian Army resuscitated its aviation aspiration in 2014.
“I am happy to inform this gathering that the Nigerian Army is willing to learn from the army aviation journeys of the countries mentioned earlier.
“Our willingness to learn from them is to adapt their best practices to suit our unique operational environment and avoid their mistakes.
“The COAS said that the army had submitted the aviation outfit to the Nigerian Air Force for proper mentoring.
