Türkiye to supply attack helicopters to Nigeria

Turkish Aerospace Industries CEO Temel Kotil has announced the signing of a contract for the supply of six T-129 ATAK attack helicopters to Nigeria as part of the Farnborough 2022 International Air Show.

Last week a delegation of the Nigerian Air Force visited Türkiye, perhaps then a contract was signed for the supply of six T-129 ATAK, Gazeta.ru reports citing Raillynews.com.

During the visit, representatives of the Nigerian Air Force visited major Turkish defence companies to clarify the range of defence products that can be purchased. The Nigerian delegation visited Turkish Aerospace Industries, Aselsan, Havelsan, Manatek, BNW Group, Fly BVLOS, Airways Group and Express Technics, the report adds.

According to Defenceweb.co, earlier, Nigeria considered the possibility of purchasing 12 American AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters. A year ago, an Indian LCH light attack helicopter was evaluated to equip the newly formed army aviation corps.

Initially, Nigeria was interested in Russian Mi-35M attack helicopters, which are already in service with the Nigerian Air Force. But due to possible US sanctions, Nigeria decided to consider other options.