Nigeria Puts Its First Two Bell UH-1H “Huey” Helicopters Into Service
The Nigerian Army announced last week the entry into service of the first two Bell UH-1H ‘Huey’ helicopters, which it claims are equipped with advanced sensors for reconnaissance, rescue, and medical evacuation in support of counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in the country. The entry into service of these modernized helicopters, which represent a significant step in the equipping of the Nigerian Army’s newly formed aviation wing, was marked by a brief ceremony at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. A number of senior military officials attended the event, including the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the NA Aviation Coordinator, Brigadier General Musa Alkali, and the Nigerian Army Aviation Adviser, Major General Emeka Onwuamaegbu (retired).
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja stated at the event that the procurement of the Bell UH-1H aircraft was part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the Nigerian Armed Forces’ defense capabilities and operational effectiveness. The COAS also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for keeping his promise to finance the acquisition of the NA platforms and providing all possible assistance in realizing the dream.
Brigadier General Musa Alkali, Nigerian Army Aviation Coordinator, stated that the acquisition of the UH-1H platforms was a clear demonstration of NA’s aviation commitment to continuous development and adaptation in the face of the changing security environment, which began 40 years ago, and that it would improve NA’s reconnaissance, surveillance, and air mobility capabilities. The Coordinator commended the tireless efforts of those involved in the implementation of the NA Aviation plan, as well as international partners.
The new platforms will assist Nigeria in combating terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State-West Africa Province), which it has been fighting since the early 2000s. Since 2014, Nigeria has strengthened its Air Force by acquiring various pieces of equipment from different countries. These include TAI T129 ATAK helicopters, Bayraktar TB2, STM TOGAN and ASİSGUARD SONGAR unmanned aerial vehicles from Turkey; A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft, AH-1Z attack helicopters, and MD 530F Cayuse Warrior Plus reconnaissance/attack helicopters from the US; Wing Loong II unmanned aerial vehicles from China; F-17 Thunder fighter jets from Pakistan; and transport, surveillance, and training aircraft from various European companies.