Tag: Super Puma Helicopter

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reactivated a Super Puma helicopter, NAF 565, in a move aimed at boosting air operations across multiple security theatres.

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, recommissioned the helicopter at the 205 Rotary Wing, Ikeja, as part of his maiden working visit in Lagos State.

According to a statement by Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the development reflected ongoing efforts to improve operational readiness and strengthen national security.

Aneke, he said, described the reactivation as part of deliberate steps to restore critical air assets and enhance the force’s mission capability.

“This occasion is not merely about the return of an aircraft to our fleet, but a demonstration of our unwavering commitment to enhance and sustain a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force,” he said.

The CAS noted that restoring legacy platforms remains a key component of the NAF’s operational strategy, adding that the Super Puma has played vital roles in troop transport, casualty evacuation, search and rescue, as well as logistics support.

According to him, the aircraft has supported operations including Operation Hadin Kai and joint missions, adding that its return would strengthen maritime security in Lagos and support counterinsurgency and anti-banditry operations nationwide.

The CAS attributed improvements in NAF’s operational capacity to Federal Government support under the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that strategic acquisitions and rehabilitation of existing platforms were enhancing airpower capabilities.

He also acknowledged funding support from the National Assembly, describing collaboration among government institutions as essential to sustaining military operations.

Aneke commended the consultant, retired Air Commodore TA Badru, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, and technicians of 205 Rotary Wing for completing the reactivation.

He urged personnel to maintain strict safety and maintenance standards to sustain aircraft serviceability.

Addressing officers, airmen, and airwomen at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, the CAS said the NAF was intensifying efforts to improve aircraft serviceability by better coordinating logistics and operations. He added that plans were underway to induct additional combat platforms to enhance precision strike capability and strengthen regional deterrence.

On personnel welfare, Aneke said the NAF would accelerate completion of ongoing accommodation projects to address housing shortages, while also improving allowances, medical support, and working conditions.

He urged personnel to remain disciplined and mission-focused as operations continue across the country.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reactivated the Super Puma Helicopter after it was grounded for three years due to a main rotor hub challenge.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said that reactivating the helicopter was crucial due to its versatility particularly in handling demanding and complex operations.

Aneke said this while inaugurating the reactivated Super Puma Helicopter at the 205 Rotary Wing, NAF, in Ikeja, Lagos State.

He noted that the platform, known for its endurance and reliability, would boost rotary wing capabilities for tasks like troop transport, search and rescue, casualty evacuation, and logistics support.

“Having demonstrated its effectiveness as a tactical mobility platform in Operation Hadin Kai, the Super Puma is a workhouse.

“This occasion is not mainly about the return of an aircraft to our fleet, but also a demonstration of our unwavering commitment to my command philosophy.

“Which is, to enhance and sustain a highly motivated professional mission ready force capable of delivering decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces for the realisation of national security objectives,” Aneke said.

Read Also: NAF to deploy unmanned air surveillance in Lagos

The CAS added that the helicopter would also serve as an asset for close support and instruction of troops, movement of troops and equipment with the Army and Navy, where the need arises in terms of maritime domain.

Aneke thanked President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast dedication to national security, clearly demonstrated by his approval of critical acquisition and support for the activation of legacy platforms.

He said that the helicopter’s return to service directly strengthens NAF’s ability to support joint operations in the maritime and coastal environment of Lagos State.

“As well as in our counterinsurgency and anti-binary operations in other theaters and parts of the country.

“I urge all the personnel of 205 Rotary Wing who will operate and maintain this aircraft to uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism and responsibility in operating this platform.

“Treat this platform with utmost care, ensuring that it remains mission ready whenever required,” the CAS said.

Aneke acknowledged the role and contributions of retired Air Commodore Taiwo Badru for his support and consultation toward the reactivation of the platform.

“I also commend the Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, AVM Mike Onyebashi, and technicians of 205 Rotary for working tirelessly to restore the helicopter to flying condition,” he said.

(NAN)