SECURITY: NAF TAKES DELIVERY OF 2 ADDITIONAL DIAMOND-62 AIRCRAFT 11-0-23
By Sadiq Aminu Nigerian Airforce has today received 2 additional Diamond-62 (DA-62) aircraft in a bid to add impetus to ongoing air operations, at a brief ceremony in Ilorin, Kwara State.
In his remarks during the ceremony, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar noted that the process that culminated into the reception of the two additional aircraft began about two years ago when the Federal Government appropriated funds for the acquisition of 4 Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF.
According to a statement by Director of Public Relations and Information of the NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet says out of the four aircraft, the first two were delivered between February and July this year, while the remaining two were received today.
The Air Chief noted that the 2 DA-62 aircraft received earlier in the year have since been deployed to the operating theatres in support of the ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in troubled areas across the country.
While urging the air and ground crew that would handle the aircraft to eschew discipline and professionalism, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar advised them to also ensure proper maintenance and operation of of the aircraft in line with recommended best practices by the original equipment manufacturer, as well as leverage the capabilities available on the aircraft to enhance NAF’s operational efficiency.
Air Marshal Abubakar also disclosed that the NAF would soon take delivery of additional platforms that include the M346FA aircraft, AW109 trekker light attack helicopter, AH-1Z super cobra, T-129 ATAK helicopters and the king Air 360i beechcraft aircraft.
He commended the Federal Government for its commitment towards revamping the fortunes of the NAF and other services aimed at ensuring peace returns to hitherto troubled spots.
In his remarks, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazak commended the NAF for its efforts, alongside other security agencies towards ridding the nation of numerous security challenges.
He assured the Air Chief of his administration’s unwavering support to the NAF and other security agencies in their tasks of safeguarding lives and property.
Earlier in his welcome address, Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal Tajudeen Yusuf noted that the acquisition of the platforms stems from its ability to carryout robust missions in furtherance of combat operations.
He added that domiciling the DA-62 under 303 medium airlift group in Ilorin would go a long way in breathing life into the unit, while enhancing its operational activities.