NAF to induct 2 newly acquired Mi-35M attack helicopters

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will induct two newly acquired Mi-35M attack helicopters into its inventory to help improve the aerial component of the counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram terrorists in the North-East.

Chairman of Organising Committee, NAF Day Celebrations 2017, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Isiaka Amao, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Abuja, as part of the activities lined up for the event.

Amao said more of the latest version of Mi-35M were expected from Russia as well as trained pilot officers to be deployed in conflict zones across the country.

He noted that the Air Force had expanded their scope of operations beyond the North-Eastern enclaves of Boko Haram, having almost achieved their mission in the area.

Speaking further, he said the theme for the 2017 NAF Day Celebration was: “Employment of air power for enduring national security” is with the view that the priority of NAF lies in the consolidation of the gains of air power employment.

Amao also listed series of activities slated to mark the celebration to include medical outreach, air weapons meet, gala night, ceremonial parade and winging of new pilots.

Others are presentation of colours to special operations command, induction of the Mi-35M as well as aerial and static display.

The organising committee chairman also said that medical outreach programme would be conducted throughout the period of the celebration for people living within the immediate host communities around NAF bases.

“This offers the unique opportunity to give back to the society. It is also a viable medium to appreciate Nigerians for their support and goodwill over the years,” he added.