First 4 of 10 Aircraft Arrive at Kaduna
The Nigerian Air Force received its first four SUPER MUSHSHAK primary trainers at Kaduna air base, home to the 301 Flight Training school, on 5 December.
The procurement contract for ten aircraft, including operational training and technical support, was signed with Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra in October. Pakistan is loaning eight aircraft to Nigeria until new aircraft become available: these first four were flown in on an Il-76 on 1 December and will be followed by a further four in mid-2017. All will be replaced by new aircraft in the second half of the year, featuring glass cockpits and improved air conditioning.
Nigeria is also slated to receive three JF-17 THUNDER fighters from Pakistan, four new Mi-35N attack helicopters from Russia and at least three ex-Brazilian Air Force SUPER TUCANOs. In addition, the US is seeking approval for the sale of up to 12 further SUPER TUCANOs to support operations against Boko Haram.
The Air Force has recently refurbished 13 aircraft and returned them to active service, including three Mi-24Vs and Mi-35Ps, two EC-135s, two A109s and one Super Puma.