The production of the 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters for Nigeria has commenced at Bell Textron's facility in Amarillo, Texas. This development marks a fresh stage in a defence acquisition programme that began with the United States approving a possible Foreign Military Sale of the helicopters and associated equipment to Nigeria in 2022. The programme is valued at $997 million and includes 12 AH-1Z helicopters, 28 T-700 GE 401C engines, and logistics and programme support.
A Nigerian Air Force delegation, led by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, visited Bell Textron's Amarillo Assembly Center on September 16. During the visit, the delegation toured the production line and participated in a ceremony to sign the frame of the first Viper being built for Nigeria. The Nigerian Air Force spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, represented the service at the event and highlighted the importance of the aircraft in Nigeria's counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
The AH-1Z Viper is an attack helicopter designed for armed operations and is capable of employing both precision-guided and unguided weapons. According to Bell, the aircraft is designed to provide multi-mission capability while maintaining a relatively small logistical footprint. The helicopters are expected to play a crucial role in strengthening Nigeria's counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations and enhancing its ability to protect its citizens.
The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of the State Department's approval of the possible Foreign Military Sale to Nigeria in April 2022. The proposed package includes 12 AH-1Z helicopters, 28 T-700 GE 401C engines, including four spares, 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System guidance sections, logistics and programme support, as well as training related to the law of armed conflict and air-to-ground integration.
Bell subsequently received a contract to manufacture and deliver the 12 helicopters to Nigeria, together with engineering, programme management and logistics support. The company said production of the Nigerian aircraft is expected to be completed in early 2029. The acquisition forms part of Nigeria's wider effort to modernise its airpower capabilities as the military continues operations against terrorism, insurgency and other security threats.
The AH-1Z programme also represents a significant component of the longstanding defence relationship between Nigeria and the United States. The US government has previously supported Nigeria with military aircraft, training and other security assistance. The Nigerian Air Force has been working closely with US officials and Bell representatives to monitor and accelerate the programme, including a programme management review meeting in San Diego in January.
With production now underway, the 12 Vipers are expected to join the Nigerian Air Force after completion of manufacturing, testing and the associated delivery process. The helicopters will significantly enhance Nigeria's military capabilities and contribute to its efforts to combat security threats. The programme is a significant milestone in the country's defence modernisation efforts and a testament to the strong defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States.
Key points
- The US has started producing 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters for Nigeria at a cost of $997 million.
- The helicopters are expected to play a crucial role in Nigeria's counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
- The programme is expected to be completed in early 2029, with the helicopters set to join the Nigerian Air Force shortly after.
