NAF Expects More Attack Helicopters From Russia, Italy

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, at the weekend announced that the Nigerian Air Force was set to take delivery of additional one Mi 35 gunship from Russia and five attack utility helicopter gunships from Italy to boost the fight against insecurity in the country.
Abubakar announced this when he paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Mambilla, Alhaji Shehu Baju, in his palace at Gembu during his maiden visit to the troops of 23 Quick Response Wing of the Nigerian Air Force at Gembu, Taraba State.
Abubakar, who said NAF would receive the helicopter gunships in March this year, told the Chief of Mambilla that two of the gunships would be stationed in Gembu to combat threats of insecurity in the state.
Abubakar said, “We are also going to open an airstrip and a helipad where smaller planes and helicopter gunships can land. Out of the helicopters we are expecting to take delivery from Italy, two will be stationed here to support the Quick Response Unit in Gembu.
“We have plans to build 30 housing units for our men here. But we are still waiting for the paper, which is before the governor. As soon as the paperwork is completed, work on the housing units will commence.” Air Marshal Abubakar said.
The air Chief had earlier said he was on the Mambilla Plateau to interact with men of the 23 Quick Response Unit which was established last year.