The Nigerian Air Force has expanded its fleet with the arrival of two extra Diamond-62 aircraft, a key step in escalating air operations against the prevailing insecurity.
Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF, disclosed this information in an official statement.
Speaking at the ceremony, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, mentioned that the journey leading to the arrival of the two new aircraft commenced nearly two years ago, with the allocation of funds by the Federal Government for the procurement of four Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF.
According to him, ‘Out of the four aircraft, the first two aircraft were delivered between February and July 2023 while the remaining two were being received today.’
Going into more detail, Abubakar emphasized that the two DA-62 aircraft received earlier this year have been promptly dispatched to the operational theaters, contributing significantly to the ongoing efforts to bring peace and stability to troubled areas within the country.
While urging the air and ground crew that would handle the aircraft to eschew discipline and professionalism, Abubakar admonished them to also ‘ensure the proper maintenance and operation of the aircraft in line with recommended best practices by the Original Equipment Manufacturer.’
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He went on to request that they take advantage of the aircraft’s capabilities to elevate the operational efficiency of the NAF.
The statement read in parts, ‘In paying glowing tribute to the FG for its commitment to revamping the fortunes of the NAF and other Services, the CAS also noted that the receipt of the two additional aircraft confirms the sincerity and commitment of the government towards ensuring peace returns to hitherto troubled spots.’
‘He went on to add that the NAF will in no distant time take delivery of additional platforms that include the M346FA aircraft, AW109 Trekker light attack helicopter, AH-1Z Super Cobra, T-129 ATAK helicopters and the King Air 360i Beechcraft aircraft.’
Addressing the audience, Kwara State Governor, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, commended the NAF and other security agencies for their commitment to addressing the country’s wide-ranging security challenges.
Abdulrahman expressed his gratitude to the CAS for making Ilorin the permanent home of the DA-62, signifying the state’s tranquility and accommodating environment.
The statement added, ‘He then assured the CAS of his administration’s unwavering support to the NAF and other security agencies in their onerous tasks of safeguarding lives and properties.’
Earlier in his welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, AVM Tajudeen Yusuf, noted that the ‘acquisition of the DA-62 aircraft stems from its ability to carry out robust missions in furtherance of combat operations.’
‘He then added that domiciling the DA-62 under 303 Medium Airlift Group in Ilorin will no doubt go a long way in breathing life into the unit while enhancing its operational activities.’