The Nigerian Air Force has taken delivery of the second batch of two TAI T129 ATAK attack helicopters from Turkey, bolstering its military capabilities in the fight against insurgency and terrorism. This latest shipment follows the arrival of the first batch of two T129s in November 2023.
A Turkish Air Force A400M cargo plane (Reg: 18-0094 #TUAF720) transported the helicopters, which landed at the Headquarters Tactical Air Command in Makurdi, Benue State on the 3rd September 2024.
The TAI T129 ATAK is a highly advanced, twin-engine attack helicopter designed for armed reconnaissance and attack missions in challenging environments. Its cutting-edge features includes dedicated electro-optical FLIR system, advanced electronic warfare and countermeasure systems, capability to carry various armaments, such as UMTAS anti-tank missiles and CIRIT 70mm missiles.
Enhancing Counterinsurgency Efforts
The arrival of these helicopters is expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s counterinsurgency operations. The T-129s will complement Nigeria’s existing fleet of helicopters, including the Russian Mil Mi-24/35 Hind and Agusta A-109 Powers light attack helicopters.
The journey to acquire these advanced helicopters began in 2021 when the Nigerian Air Force expressed the need to strengthen its firepower through the acquisition of attack helicopters. Negotiations were subsequently held with several international manufacturers, including European-based Airbus, India’s HAL, and Turkey’s TAI (Tusas Engine Industries).
A Strategic Partnership with Turkey
The delivery of these helicopters is a testament to the growing defense partnership between Nigeria and Turkey. The two countries have been strengthening their bilateral ties in recent years, with Turkey emerging as a key supplier of military hardware to Nigeria. This partnership is expected to continue, with Nigeria set to receive additional Turkish-made defense equipment, including Bayraktar TB2 drones and armored vehicles.
In 2022, Nigerian military leaders engaged with prominent Turkish defence companies to explore the acquisition of advanced military hardware. This engagement resulted in a contract for the procurement of six TAI T-129 ATAK helicopters being signed by Nigeria in July 2022, with an estimated unit price of $45 million.
Notably, the defence partnership between Nigeria and Turkey was formally initiated in October 2021 during the visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to Nigeria. This marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the two nations in the field of defense technology and operational efficiency.
To ensure the optimal utilization of the T-129 ATAK helicopters, Nigerian Air Force personnel embarked on training in Turkey in May 2023. The training program focuses on the operation and maintenance of these advanced helicopters and is expected to continue for several months.
A Boost to National Security
The acquisition of these advanced helicopters demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and ensuring the security of its citizens. With the T129s, the Nigerian Air Force will be better equipped to tackle the country’s evolving security challenges.
The Nigerian Air Force now operates a total of four T129 ATAK helicopters, solidifying its position as a key player in regional security efforts.
Meanwhile, Nigeria is also set to receive 12 American AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters as part of a significant $875 million arms deal. These acquisitions will further enhance the country’s military capabilities. Also, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has initiated the retirement process for some of its aging Russian-made Mil Mi-24V/P attack helicopters.