The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is ready to receive the first Squadron of M346 “Master” in the coming months, according to a recent statement by the NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet.
The NAF ordered 24 units of the jet trainer and light attack aircraft to combat terrorism and banditry in the country.
Military experts say it will be arguably the most advanced fixed-wing fighter in the NAF fleet.
It has 5th-generation avionics, high angle of attack capability and a fly-by-wire control system.
The aircraft can integrate armaments, external loads, gun pods, and target reconnaissance and designation pods integrated with Helmet Mounted Displays.
Nigeria expects to receive the first Squadron in 2023, with the remaining 12 to be delivered in 2024.
The “Master” will be the only strike aircraft in the NAF with two complete squadrons.
Apart from the M346 “Master”, other platforms being expected by the NAF include 2 Agusta 109 Trekker Multi-role helicopters, 2 Beechcraft King Air 360, 3 Diamond DA-62 surveillance aircraft and 6 T-129 ATAK helicopters.
Other pending acquisitions include 2 CASA -295 medium airlift/surveillance aircraft and 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters.
The acquisition of additional platforms is expected to bolster training, air power employment and projection in the NAF.
The Alpha jet has the longest record of continuous service of any attack aircraft in the NAF. However, it will be stepping down for the “Master” as the primary air-to-ground pounder of the NAF.
