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NAF restores Super Puma helicopter to boost operational readiness
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Aircraft strengthens counterinsurgency, maritime security, and logistics support
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Reactivation aligns with NAF’s asset restoration and national security efforts
The Nigerian Air Force has reactivated its Super Puma helicopter, NAF 565, which was previously grounded due to unserviceability.
The Service said the development reflects sustained efforts to strengthen operational capability and maintain airpower in support of national security operations across the country.
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A statement on Wednesday by the Nigerian Air Force spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the helicopter was reactivated on Tuesday by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
The aircraft was restored through the efforts of the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, retired Air Commodore T.A. Badru, and personnel of the 205 Rotary Wing.
Speaking at the reactivation event, Aneke said the return of the Super Puma formed part of ongoing efforts to restore and maintain critical platforms within the Nigerian Air Force inventory to ensure mission readiness.
He said the reactivation demonstrated the Service’s commitment to sustaining a professional, motivated, and mission-ready force capable of meeting evolving security demands.
Aneke described the Super Puma as a versatile rotary-wing aircraft deployed for troop transport, casualty evacuation, search and rescue operations, and logistics support.
He said the platform had previously been deployed in Operation Hadin Kai and other joint military operations across the country.
According to him, the return of the aircraft would enhance maritime security operations in Lagos while reinforcing counterinsurgency and anti-banditry efforts nationwide.
The Air Chief commended retired Air Commodore Badru, the Mobility Command leadership, and the 205 Rotary Wing personnel for their roles in the aircraft’s restoration.
He urged aircrew members and maintenance personnel to adhere strictly to safety and maintenance standards to ensure sustained serviceability of the platform.
Aneke also acknowledged the role of the National Assembly in providing fiscal support for Nigerian Air Force operations.
During a durbar with officers, airmen, and airwomen at the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja, the Air Chief reviewed his first 100 days in office.
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He cited improvements in aircraft serviceability and operational tempo, attributing the gains to improved coordination between logistics and operations.
Aneke disclosed plans to accelerate the induction of new combat platforms to enhance precision strike capability and deterrence.
On personnel welfare, he said the Nigerian Air Force would prioritise the completion of ongoing accommodation projects initiated by his predecessor to address housing challenges.
He added that improvements in allowances, medical services, and working conditions would continue in line with the Service’s welfare policy.
The Super Puma helicopter remains a key rotary-wing platform in the Nigerian Air Force and has played significant roles in security operations, particularly in the North-East.
The Nigerian Air Force said the aircraft’s return to service underscored its ongoing efforts to restore critical assets and improve operational readiness amid sustained security operations nationwide.
