The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has completed the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) for the first batch of three M-346 Fighter Attack aircraft, marking a significant milestone in its fleet modernisation programme and paving the way for the aircraft’s delivery to Nigeria.
The acceptance exercise took place from June 29 to July 9, 2026, at the Leonardo Aircraft Division facility in Venegono, Italy. A joint delegation from the NAF and the Ministry of Defence (MOD) conducted the inspection, successfully completing all contractual acceptance requirements.
The aircraft, designated NAF 01, NAF 02 and NAF 03, met all contractual, technical and airworthiness standards after undergoing comprehensive verification by representatives of the NAF, the Ministry of Defence and Leonardo Aircraft Division. The certification clears the aircraft for delivery and eventual induction into the Nigerian Air Force’s growing fleet of modern combat platforms.
During the visit, the delegation also held discussions with Leonardo Aircraft Division on pilot and maintenance training, logistics support and long-term fleet sustainment. The team inspected the Full Mission Simulator, Virtual Reality-enabled training systems and other ground-based facilities designed to prepare Nigerian pilots and technical personnel for operating and maintaining the new aircraft.
The Nigerian Air Force said these training investments would strengthen indigenous technical expertise, improve operational self-sufficiency and ensure long-term mission readiness.
Speaking on the successful acceptance, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the M-346 Fighter Attack aircraft as a strategic addition that will enhance the service’s operational capability.
According to him, the aircraft combines advanced pilot training with frontline combat capabilities, enabling the Air Force to produce combat-ready aircrew while expanding its ability to conduct precision strikes, close air support, air interdiction and other combat missions to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
The Air Force also said the successful Factory Acceptance Test reflects the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthening the operational capacity of the Armed Forces through the acquisition of modern and technologically advanced military platforms.
It noted that the M-346 programme represents a major investment in national defence and will further position the Nigerian Air Force among Africa’s leading air forces operating advanced multi-role combat aircraft.
The NAF reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity, supporting joint military operations and protecting the lives and property of citizens. It added that the arrival of the first batch of M-346 Fighter Attack aircraft marks another step in its transformation into a more agile, professional and combat-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power whenever required.
