NAF STRENGTHENS M-346 MAINTENANCE CAPABILITY THROUGH SPECIALISED TRAINING IN ITALY

NAF STRENGTHENS M-346 MAINTENANCE CAPABILITY THROUGH SPECIALISED TRAINING IN ITALY

Keeping advanced combat aircraft mission-ready requires more than modern platforms; it demands skilled personnel capable of sustaining their serviceability. In line with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is strengthening its M-346 maintenance capability through specialised training in Italy. The programme, which commenced on 13 July 2026, involves 13 personnel comprising 4 officers and 9 airmen and airwomen, receiving training in airframe, propulsion and engine run procedures.

The training progressed from theoretical instruction in Turin, focusing on airframe and propulsion systems, to practical sessions at the M-346 production facility in Venegono, Varese. The practical phase was successfully completed on 25 September 2026, equipping participants with hands-on aircraft maintenance skills. The final phase, covering engine run procedures, involves 2 officers and 4 airmen and airwomen, with completion scheduled for 25 October 2026.

The initiative reinforces the NAF’s commitment to developing specialised technical expertise, improving aircraft serviceability and sustaining operational readiness. It also advances the CAS’s emphasis on professionalism, standardised training and mission-focused capability development, strengthening the Service’s capacity to deliver effective airpower in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

#NAF #WillingAbleAndReady #AirPower #CapacityDevelopment #M346 #OperationalReadiness