Esther Oseyiomon
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has strengthened the Nigerian Air Force’s drive for modernisation and global partnerships during a strategic visit to the Czech Republic from Feb. 23 to 24, 2026.
The visit, according to the NAF, forms part of efforts to boost training, sustainment and operational capacity through structured international collaboration in line with evolving security realities.
At Aero Vodochody Aerospace, Aneke reaffirmed Nigeria’s long-standing partnership with the aircraft manufacturer, particularly in the overhaul and upgrade of the L-39ZA Albatros jets used for pilot training.
He expressed appreciation for the company’s technical support while stressing the need for sustained cooperation in spares supply, technical expertise and training assistance to enhance institutional capacity.
Talks also centred on the NAF’s planned transition from the legacy L-39ZA to the more advanced L-39 Skyfox trainer aircraft, with the CAS emphasising the importance of aligning training systems with modern warfare demands without disrupting pilot development.
During separate high-level engagements with the Czech Air Force, both sides explored expanded collaboration in simulator development, logistics support and rotary- and fixed-wing training.
Aneke further met with defence export stakeholders to examine advanced aviation simulators, parachute systems and unmanned aerial technologies, highlighting the importance of innovation and technology transfer.
He said the NAF remains focused on partnerships that promote self-reliance, local capacity development and sustainable capability growth, adding that defence diplomacy remains central to positioning the service as a resilient and globally engaged force.