The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commenced high-level engagements to fast-track the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States, aimed at strengthening its combat and operational capacity.

The Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, disclosed this in a statement issued Sunday in Abuja. According to the statement, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, led a delegation to the United States to participate in a Programme Management Review Meeting on the acquisition process.

The strategic meeting, which took place from June 9 to 13 in San Diego, California, brought together top U.S. government officials and representatives of Bell Textron, the manufacturers of the AH-1Z Viper helicopters.

Following the meeting, Air Marshal Abubakar visited Camp Pendleton, where he toured two Marine Corps aviation units—Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 (HMLA-367) and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 39 (MALS-39)—which are directly involved in the operation and maintenance of the AH-1Z platform.

During the visit, the Air Chief inspected the attack helicopters and held discussions with senior officers of the United States Marine Corps on operational standards, sustainment practices, and logistics support models applicable to the AH-1Z.

Speaking during the engagement, Air Marshal Abubakar expressed gratitude to the U.S. government for its continued cooperation, stating that the acquisition of the AH-1Z Vipers would greatly improve the NAF’s combat capabilities and readiness for joint operations.

“This visit has provided a unique opportunity to understand best practices for the operation, sustainment, and logistical support of the AH-1Z platform from the United States Marine Corps,” Abubakar said.

He added that the NAF remains committed to ensuring the delivery of the helicopters within the shortest time possible.

“Every necessary step will be taken to facilitate a seamless procurement and integration process,” he said.

The Air Chief also restated the Air Force’s commitment to deploying all acquired platforms effectively in support of ongoing military operations against terrorism, armed banditry, and other threats to national security.

“Our objective remains the protection of innocent lives and the restoration of peace and stability, in accordance with international rules of engagement,” he stated.

He also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in advancing the NAF’s modernization efforts.

“The progress made in the AH-1Z acquisition project is a direct reflection of the President’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture,” Abubakar said.