DBDC INTERNATIONAL DEFENCE PUBLICATIONS & EVENTS UK LTD

Photo credit: Nigerian Air Force (NAF)

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is strengthening its operational and training capabilities through a strategic partnership with the International Test Pilots School (ITPS), Canada, focusing on advanced pilot instruction, engineering support and airworthiness standards for the M-346FA fighter platform.

The cooperation was highlighted during a courtesy visit by ITPS Executive Chairman Giorgio Clementi to the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at NAF Headquarters in Abuja on 24 April 2026.

The engagement follows earlier high-level discussions held during Air Marshal Aneke’s visit to Canada, where both sides explored areas of long-term collaboration aimed at supporting the Nigerian Air Force’s modernization programme. Central to the discussions was the development of specialised training for pilots operating the M-346FA light combat aircraft, as well as initiatives related to aircraft engineering, maintenance and airworthiness management.

Speaking during the meeting, Air Marshal Aneke stated that the partnership forms part of the NAF’s broader strategy to build a technologically advanced, highly skilled and mission-ready air force capable of addressing evolving operational challenges. He emphasized that advanced fighter pilot training, combined with stronger engineering capacity and improved airworthiness procedures, would significantly enhance operational effectiveness and mission readiness.

According to the Chief of the Air Staff, structured pilot training programmes, instructor development initiatives and the integration of advanced simulation technologies are key elements required to improve operational safety, efficiency and combat preparedness across the service.

The M-346FA platform represents an important capability enhancement for the Nigerian Air Force, offering both advanced pilot training and light combat functionality. The aircraft’s modern avionics and multi-role capabilities require highly specialized training standards, making international partnerships increasingly important for force development.

During the visit, Giorgio Clementi presented the capabilities of ITPS in the fields of test pilot instruction, flight testing and aviation consultancy services. He reaffirmed the institution’s readiness to provide customized training solutions tailored to the Nigerian Air Force’s operational requirements under a long-term cooperation framework.

The visit also included interactive discussions with Branch Chiefs and Directors at Headquarters NAF, where both parties examined implementation mechanisms and future cooperation priorities.

The engagement concluded with a shared commitment to transform the identified cooperation areas into practical outcomes, reinforcing the Nigerian Air Force’s determination to leverage international partnerships and global best practices in support of operational readiness, aviation safety and long-term force modernization.