Esther oseyiomon
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has underscored the growing importance of its Agusta helicopter fleet, describing the platforms as a key driver of operational success in ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency campaigns nationwide.
The Air Force said the helicopters have delivered rapid and precise air support across the North East, North West, and North Central regions, carrying out missions such as armed reconnaissance, close air support, combat search-and-rescue, troop deployment, and medical evacuation.
According to the NAF, the introduction of the AgustaWestland AW109 Power helicopters has significantly enhanced its operational capabilities, enabling faster response times and improved accuracy in engaging insurgent targets.
The Service noted that the rotary-wing platforms have worked in close coordination with fixed-wing aircraft, providing real-time backing to ground forces operating in difficult and high-threat environments.
NAF authorities added that the flexibility of the Agusta fleet has contributed to several successful offensives, including the destruction of terrorist supply bases, interception of armed vehicles, and disruption of insurgent movement routes.
Operational figures released by the Air Force show that over a 15-month period, more than 8,665 missions were executed in 9,928 sorties, with total flying hours exceeding 15,915 across multiple theatres of operation.
The data also highlighted the central role of the helicopters in intelligence gathering, surveillance, precision strikes, and tactical mobility, further strengthening battlefield coordination.
The NAF maintained that the fleet’s rapid deployment capability continues to degrade insurgent operations, improve the safety of troops, and reinforce public confidence in the military’s efforts to restore security across the country.