Nigeria signs deal with Italy’s Leonardo to buy 24 M-346 transonic jets

Africa, Europe, News April 25, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

Italy’s leading aircraft manufacturer, Leonardo, has recently announced that it secured a contract to supply 24 M-346 aircraft to the Nigerian Air Force. The company affirmed that the delivery of the first of these training aircraft would be made by the end of the year 2024.

During a visit to the Nigerian Air Force headquarters, the Vice President of Leonardo Africa Sales, Claudio Sabatino, reaffirmed his company’s commitment to supplying the M-346 fighter aircraft, signaling a significant step forward in Nigeria’s military modernization agenda.

As per a recent announcement on social media by the Nigerian Air Force, a total of 24 aircraft are slated for delivery in four batches of six, with the contract also including 25 years of maintenance, as well as technical and logistical support.

Leonardo’s M-346

The M-346 is a cutting-edge advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft manufactured by Leonardo, designed to meet the demands of modern air forces for effective pilot training and combat readiness. This versatile aircraft boasts a range of advanced features and specifications that make it a standout performer in its class.

The jet is equipped with an advanced set of avionics suite, which includes state-of-the-art sensors, navigation systems, and mission computers. This enables the aircraft to simulate a wide range of combat scenarios and provide trainee pilots with a realistic and immersive training experience. Additionally, the M-346 is equipped with a sophisticated fly-by-wire flight control system, enhancing its agility and maneuverability in both training and combat roles.

*^{The M-346 fighter attack aircraft. (Image Credit: Leonardo/Alessandro Maggia)}*

M-346 is powered by two Honeywell F124 turbofan engines, enabling the aircraft to achieve high speeds and altitudes, ensuring that trainee pilots are adequately prepared for the demands of modern combat aviation. Furthermore, the M-346 features a digital engine control system, which optimizes engine performance and fuel efficiency while reducing maintenance requirements.

The M-346’s design also prioritizes safety and survivability, with advanced features such as ejection seats, onboard oxygen generation systems, and enhanced cockpit visibility. These elements contribute to a safer training environment and provide pilots with the confidence to push the aircraft to its limits during training exercises.

In terms of armament, the M-346 can be equipped with a variety of weapon systems, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, and precision-guided munitions. This versatility allows the aircraft to fulfill a range of combat roles, from air superiority and close air support to reconnaissance and interception.

Nigeria’s military modernization

The latest deal is a part of Nigeria’s efforts to bolster its defense capabilities. Apart from acquiring the M-346, the Nigerian military’s modernization projects encompass obtaining Turkish-made T129 Tactical Reconnaissance and Attack Helicopters (ATAK), two Augusta 109 Trekker multi-role helicopters, and three Wing Loong II drones from China.

The initial delivery of two T129 helicopters, developed by the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), occurred in November 2023, after the Defense Industry Cooperation Agreement signed between Turkey and Nigeria during President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to the sub-Saharan country in October 2021. According to the agreement, Turkey is slated to export a total of six T129 ATAK helicopters to Nigeria.

*^{Nigerian naval forces participating in Grand African NEMO-21 Exercise. (Image Credit: Newsnaira)}*

Nigeria is also involved in defense initiatives in collaboration with Indonesia outlining joint production arrangements for four CN235-220 transport aircraft to Abuja. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Defense recently verified a transaction involving the sale of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters to Nigeria.