The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is enhancing their combat capabilities through the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States, a deal valued at approximately $997 million.
The U.S. State Department approved the sale in April 2022, and Nigeria made the first payment back in August 2023.
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The contract includes 28 T-700 GE 401C engines (24 installed, 4 spares), 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guidance sections, M197 20mm cannons, night vision systems, and training support. A $7.7 million contract was awarded to Northrop Grumman in December 2023 for 32 mission computers.
The AH-1Z Viper, a twin-engine attack helicopter developed by Bell Helicopter, is designed for close air support, anti-armor, anti-air warfare, and reconnaissance missions.
It features advanced avionics, a four-bladed rotor system, and the ability to carry Hydra 70 rockets, AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, and potentially AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, though the Nigerian deal excludes Hellfire missiles in favor of APKWS-guided rockets.
This acquisition aims to address Nigeria’s security challenges, including the Boko Haram insurgency and banditry, by enhancing the NAF’s firepower and operational efficiency.
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Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff, emphasized the helicopters’ role in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency during a June 2025 meeting in San Diego with U.S. officials and Bell Textron, where delivery timelines were reviewed.
The NAF is committed to fast-tracking the integration of these helicopters, ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law.