Nigeria Moves to Acquire 12 AH-1Z Viper Helicopters from U.S.

The Federal Government is negotiating with the United States for the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters to enhance the operational strength of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

This was disclosed in a statement on Sunday by NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.

Designed and produced by Bell Helicopter, the AH-1Z Viper is the only attack helicopter globally with fully integrated air-to-air missile capability. According to the NAF, the Viper’s advanced sensors enable pilots to identify, track, and engage targets at maximum weapon range, making its strikes more lethal and missions more survivable.

The helicopters form part of 61 aircraft expected to be delivered to Nigeria in 2025.

Air Commodore Ejodame revealed that the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, led a high-level NAF team to the United States for a programme management review meeting on the procurement. The four-day meeting, held in San Diego, California, included senior U.S. government officials and representatives from Bell Textron, manufacturers of the AH-1Z.

“At the meeting, the Chief of Air Staff conveyed sincere appreciation to the U.S. Government for its enduring partnership,” Ejodame said.

“We are fully committed to ensuring these platforms are delivered in the shortest possible time. Every necessary step will be taken to facilitate a seamless procurement and integration process,” he added.

During the visit, Air Marshal Abubakar also toured Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 (HMLA-367) and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 39 (MALS-39), under Marine Aircraft Group 39 at Camp Pendleton, California.

“These squadrons are actively engaged in the operation and maintenance of the AH-1Z helicopter,” Ejodame noted. “The Chief of Air Staff had the opportunity to inspect the helicopters first-hand and engage with senior officers of the United States Marine Corps on best practices for the operation, sustainment, and logistics support of the AH-1Z platform.”

Air Marshal Abubakar described the visit as “a unique opportunity to understand best practices for the operation, sustainment, and logistical support of the AH-1Z platform from the U.S. Marine Corps.”

He reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to deploying its air assets responsibly and effectively in support of national security.

“Our goal is to create enduring peace while protecting innocent lives and property in line with internationally accepted rules of engagement,” he said.