Killings: Air force takes delivery of combat helicopters from Russia

The Nigerian air force (NAF) has taken delivery of two Mi-35M combat helicopters from Russia to combat the security challenges in the country.

Abdulganiyu Olabisi, chief of aircraft engineering at NAF headquarters, received the new aircraft on Monday at the tactical air command in Makurdi, Benue state capital.

He said the federal government had ordered the helicopters as part of its concerted effort in tackling the crisis situation in various parts of the country.

He added that NAF was aware of the disturbing security situation in the country and is committed to ensuring that every part of Nigeria is safe and secured.

“The helicopters in a few days from now will be assembled,” Olabisi said.

“We are happy that we have a team of Russian engineers who are going to assist in assembling these helicopters.

“Thereafter, they will be taken to Kaduna where they will be officially inducted as part of the 54th NAF Day celebration.”

He said the helicopters will subsequently be “deployed in conflict zones” in the country.

Olatokunbo Adesanya, director, public relations and information, NAF headquarters Abuja, said the helicopters will “go a long way” in enhancing the security of the nation and enhancing the NAF operational capacity.

He added: “We took delivery of two in December 2016. Those two are already deployed for operations and we have seen them recording a lot of feat in the counter insurgency fight in the north-east.

“These two that have been received today (Monday) are also going to be assembled after which they will be test-flown and once they are test-flown, they will be inducted in Kaduna.”