The Nigerian Air Force has announced the acceptance of its first batch of three Leonardo M-346FA light attack aircraft…
The service confirmed that the three platforms, designated NAF 01, NAF 02, and NAF 03, have successfully completed the acceptance process after meeting all contractual, technical, and airworthiness requirements.
These aircraft represent the first batch of a planned 24-aircraft fleet, procured under a contract valued at approximately 1 billion euros.
The M-346FA is set to replace the Alpha Jet A/E light attack and training aircraft currently in the Nigerian Air Force inventory.
The aircraft is capable of carrying a variety of unguided and precision-guided munitions.
The M-346FA has a maximum speed of 590 knots, a service ceiling of 45,000 feet, and a range of 1,963 kilometers, with an endurance of four hours when equipped with two external fuel tanks…