Nigeria brings Alpha Jet into active service
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has restored an Alpha Jet into active service after upgrading its avionics.
The aircraft was officially reinstated at a ceremony on 21 March in Kainji.
Air Marshall Sadique Abubakar, Chief of the Nigerian Air Staff said: ‘The avionics upgrade, which is the first of its kind on the Alpha Jet, has also significantly improved the aircraft navigation and communications system thus increasing safety, reliability and overall efficiency.’
The NAF is also in the process of restoring Mi-35 aircraft into active service as the country attempts to expand its air power capability.
The base at Kainji is expanding its runway in order to accommodate Nigeria’s new delivery of Embraer A-29 Super Tucanos which will enter into service in 2022.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
-
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
-
US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist
The USAF is looking for commercial avionics solutions to improve the T-38 Talon’s reliability, readiness and flight safety as continued T-7A Red Hawk delays increase the likelihood that the legacy trainer will remain in service longer than planned.
-
British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty
The UK’s choice of the Tekever AR5 for Project Corvus reflects a wider shift in military drone procurement towards solutions that centre on sovereignty and domestic production, moving away from overseas reliance.