In a concerted effort to bolster ongoing air operations, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) celebrated a significant milestone on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, with the reception of two additional Diamond-62 (DA-62) aircraft at a brief, yet colorful ceremony held in Ilorin, Kwara State.
According to Director of Public Relations and Information Nigerian Air Force Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, lauded the Federal Government (FG) for its commitment to the nation’s security as these new assets were added to the NAF’s inventory.
The acquisition of these two DA-62 aircraft marks the culmination of a process initiated approximately two years ago when the FG allocated funds for the procurement of four Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF.
The first two aircraft were delivered between February and July 2023, while the remaining two were officially received today.
Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted that the initial two DA-62 aircraft, received earlier this year, had already been deployed to support ongoing peace and stability efforts in conflict areas across the country.
He emphasized the need for discipline and professionalism among the air and ground crews tasked with the operation and maintenance of the aircraft, adhering to recommended best practices as provided by the Original Equipment Manufacturer.
Additionally, he urged them to maximize the capabilities of these aircraft to enhance the operational efficiency of the NAF.
Air Marshal Abubakar extended his praise to the FG, acknowledging their unwavering support in rejuvenating the capabilities of the NAF. He remarked that the delivery of these two additional DA-62 aircraft underscored the government’s dedication to ensuring peace was restored in previously troubled areas.
Furthermore, he revealed that the NAF is poised to receive more advanced platforms in the near future, including the M346FA aircraft, AW109 Trekker light attack helicopters, AH-1Z Super Cobra, T-129 ATAK helicopters, and the King Air 360i Beechcraft aircraft.
During the ceremony, the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, commended the NAF and other security agencies for their relentless efforts in addressing the nation’s security challenges.
He also expressed his gratitude to CAS for designating Ilorin as the homebase of the DA-62 aircraft, a testament to the peaceful and conducive nature of the State.
The governor assured the CAS of his administration’s unwavering support for the NAF and other security agencies in their mission to safeguard lives and properties.
Air Vice Marshal Tajudeen Yusuf, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, emphasized the DA-62’s suitability for robust mission profiles that advance combat operations.
He highlighted that housing the DA-62 under the 303 Medium Airlift Group in Ilorin will undoubtedly breathe new life into the unit, enhancing its operational capabilities.
The Nigerian Air Force’s acquisition of two additional Diamond-62 aircraft represents a crucial step towards strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities and underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in previously volatile areas.
These aircraft, along with forthcoming advanced platforms, are expected to further enhance the operational efficiency of the NAF in its mission to safeguard the nation.
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