US-Nigeria Security Deal: Nigeria Plans Acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper Attack Helicopters

The United States and Nigeria are advancing their security partnership, with the planned acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters expected to strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities and support efforts to tackle security threats.

The US Mission in Nigeria disclosed this in a post on its official X account on Tuesday, describing the proposed acquisition as part of ongoing cooperation between both countries to address current and emerging security challenges.

“U.S.-Nigeria security cooperation continues to advance our shared efforts to strengthen regional security,” the Mission stated.

It added that the planned acquisition of the helicopters underscored both countries’ commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence capabilities and addressing security threats.

The Mission also reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to its security partnership with Nigeria, saying the cooperation was aimed at promoting peace, security and stability.

US-Nigeria Defence Partnership

The planned helicopter acquisition is part of a broader defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States, which has included military equipment, training and programmes to improve Nigeria’s capacity to combat terrorism and other security threats.

Cooperation between the two countries also covers counterterrorism, maritime and border security, military professionalisation and defence trade.

In April 2022, the US State Department approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Nigeria involving 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and related equipment, with an estimated value of $997 million.

The proposed package included 28 T700-GE-401C engines, 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System guidance sections, logistics support and training.

According to the US government, the proposed sale was intended to improve Nigeria’s ability to contribute to shared security objectives, promote regional stability and strengthen interoperability with the United States and other Western partners.

Nigeria’s Previous US Military Purchases

The helicopter deal followed earlier US military assistance to Nigeria, including the 2017 sale of 12 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft for $497 million.

The US State Department said Nigeria made its first payment for the 12 AH-1Z helicopters in August 2023.

The latest statement from the US Mission highlights the continued defence cooperation between both countries as Nigeria works to strengthen its military capabilities and respond to security challenges.