₦airaland Forum

PRESS RELEASE

NAF AIRCRAFT DESTROYS BOKO HARAM TERRORIST MEETING VENUE AT JABULLAM IN BORNO STATE

The Air Task Force (ATF) of Operation LAFIYA DOLE has destroyed a Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) meeting venue at Jabullam in Northern Borno State. The attack was carried out on 28 September 2018 following credible human intelligence reports indicating that some buildings within the settlement were being used for meetings attended by BHT leaders. Accordingly, following confirmatory Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions which identified the target building and surrounding structures, the ATF detailed a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet aircraft, which attacked the location and recorded direct hits on the target leading to the obliteration of the building and neutralization of the BHT occupants.

The NAF, working in concert with surface forces, will sustain the momentum of operations with a view to destroying remnants of the terrorists in the fringes of Lake Chad and other areas in Northern Borno.

IBIKUNLE DARAMOLA
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigerian Air Force

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NAF REACTIVATES MORE PLATFORMS AS CAS INSPECTS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BREAKTHROUGHS, COMMISSIONS NEW PROJECTS IN PORT HARCOURT

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commenced the in-house reactivation of 2 more platforms to enhance its operational efficiency in the discharge of its constitutional roles. The reactivation, which would enable the Service save huge foreign exchange that would have been expended if carried out abroad, would also improve NAF’s operational capability. The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, while assessing the progress of work on the Mi-35P and EC-135 helicopters at 115 Special Operations Group (115 SOG) Port Harcourt on 28 September 2018, stated that the aircraft would become serviceable and available before the end of the year, bringing to 15 the total number of aircraft that would have been reactivated within the last 3 years. It may be recalled that, just recently, the NAF re-inducted another Mi-35P helicopter into combat duties after undergoing a comprehensive in-country Life Extension Programme (LEP) at 115 SOG; the first time such a feat would be achieved for NAF Mi-series helicopters.

Air Marshal Abubakar, who also commissioned a new block of 30 single bedroom transit accommodation for airmen and airwomen as well as a remodelled and furnished block of Single Officers’ Quarters (SOQ), equally inspected Research and Development (R & D) projects executed by the Unit. These projects included the design and construction of a Cannon Loading Machine; Rocket Pod Testing Device as well as a Battery Cart and AC Generator Phasing Device for Mi-35P Helicopter Fleet. Others are the design and construction an Engine Stand and Ground Towing Equipment for the EC-135 Helicopter. Conducting the CAS and other dignitaries on a tour of the R& projects, the Commanding Officer 14 Logistics Wing (CO 14 Log Wg), Wing Commander Opeoluwa Ige, stated that the projects were embarked upon to provide innovative solutions to engineering problems in the unit. He pointed out that they had been executed by personnel of the unit, in collaboration with some local and foreign partners, at a fraction of the cost of purchasing same or similar equipment from abroad. Responding, the CAS commended the Commander 115 SOG, Air Commodore Elijah Ebiowe, and CO 14 Log Wg for their commitment and resourcefulness in executing so many R& projects, which would, no doubt, reduce turn round time for aircraft maintenance. He also congratulated the Commander for achieving 100 percent serviceability rate of operable aircraft in the unit, while also effectively supervising the reactivation work on the 2 NAF helicopters.

While commissioning the blocks of accommodation, the CAS stated that all actions taken in the Service were geared towards actualizing his vision for a highly professional and disciplined fighting force for the effective and efficient employment of Air Power in response to Nigeria's national security imperatives. This, he said, required the right structure and equipment as well as a well-trained and motivated workforce. He stated that achieving the right structure had necessitated the creation of 2 new commands – the Special Operations and Ground Training Commands. In terms of equipment disposition, the CAS disclosed that, with the support of the Federal Government, the NAF had acquired and inducted 18 brand new aircraft into the Service, while also reactivating 13 others that were previously unserviceable; bringing to 31 the total number of aircraft that had come into service in the last 3 years. Speaking further, the CAS noted that the NAF was also expecting the delivery of additional 6 brand new attack helicopters procured from Italy along with the 12 Super Tucano aircraft expected from the United States of America, which would significantly boost NAF’s aircraft holding by the end of 2020. He noted that such unprecedented acquisition of aircraft was last witnessed in the early 80s. He therefore thanked the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari, as well as the National Assembly for their continued support to the Service.

Air Marshal Abubakar stated that the NAF was doing its utmost to ensure high level of motivation among its personnel. Apart from providing conducive work and residential environments and ensuring prompt payment of allowances, the Service had, in the last 3 years, provided new hospitals and upgraded existing ones in NAF units across the country while also establishing new schools and expanding existing ones to ensure favourable home front for personnel while fighting in the various theatres. In this regard, he announced that the conversion of the Air Force Secondary School Port Harcourt into a boarding school would soon commence. The CAS also highlighted that, in line with his capacity building initiatives, the Service had embarked on massive training in all NAF specialties. For instance, the NAF had produced 90 pilots in the last 3 years and had trained many personnel in various fields of information communication technology and engineering, both locally and abroad. “Only recently in Lagos, we established a Forensic Crime Laboratory at the 057 Provost Investigation Group. We have also trained 32 personnel in modern investigative techniques while 140 Air Provost personnel are undergoing special operations training to join our recently established Quick Response Groups and Wings”, Air Marshal Abubakar said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Tactical Air Command (TAC), Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Oladayo Amao, who was represented by the Chief of Staff Headquarters TAC, AVM Idi Lubo, appreciated the CAS for providing human and material resources to accomplish the laudable projects. “These projects in 115 SOG are not in isolation as they are reflective of the CAS’ effort to provide sufficient accommodation for the ever-growing number of NAF personnel in various bases across the country”, he said.

IBIKUNLE DARAMOLA
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigerian Air Force

joshingjosh:
I just watched those blue Angels their video..those guys dey use their life play oo

But Sha nice performance by them

You mean the United States Navy "Blue Angel"....

Those guys are badt ass aerobatic pilots.

PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF DEFENCE COMMISERATES WITH CAS ON THE DEATH OF SQUADRON LEADER BABA-ARI

In continuation of the overwhelming show of support and solidarity that has attended the demise of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) pilot, Squadron Leader (Sqn Ldr) Mohammed Bello Baba-Ari, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence (MOD), Mrs Nuratu Batagarawa, has today, 29 September 2018, paid a condolence visit to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar. Mrs Batagarawa, who was accompanied on the visit by the Director Air Force MOD and other Directors from the Ministry, conveyed the condolences of the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan-Ali, to the CAS, officers, airmen, airwomen and civilian staff of the Service for the irreparable loss. She prayed that God would comfort the entire NAF family and grant the departed eternal rest. She also prayed for the quick recovery of the 2 pilots that survived the incident.

In response, the CAS thanked the Permanent Secretary for the immense show of support. He noted that the complex nature of air operations implies that the risk of something going wrong cannot be totally ruled out. He pointed out that even some of the most advanced nations still experience such incidents, despite the sophistication of their aircraft and robustness of their support infrastructure. He stated that this risk had been accepted by NAF personnel in the performance of their constitutional roles. Speaking further, the CAS intimated Mrs Batagarawa that late Sqn Ldr Baba-Ari was a calm, knowledgeable, organized and committed officer, who was not only an excellent pilot, but also an effective leader, who often handled responsibilities far above his age and rank. He stated that Sqn Ldr Baba-Ari's death was therefore a huge loss to the NAF. Air Marshal Abubakar however noted that the Service was consoled by the legacy left behind by the deceased officer and would ensure all steps are taken to prevent a reoccurrence. The CAS equally briefed the Permanent Secretary that the 2 surviving pilots were doing extremely well.

IBIKUNLE DARAMOLA
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigerian Air Force

Concl

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CAS PAYS CONDOLENCE VISIT TO THE FAMILY OF LATE SQUADRON LEADER MOHAMMED BELLO BABA-ARI, VISITS SURVIVING PILOTS IN HOSPITAL

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar, has today, 29 September 2018, paid a condolence visit to the family of late Squadron Leader (Sqn Ldr) Mohammed Bello Baba-Ari, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) pilot who died yesterday as a result of an air mishap. The CAS, who was received by the deceased’s father, Alhaji Abu Baba-Ari, lauded the sterling virtues of the late senior officer, stating that he was an exceptional officer who excelled in virtually every area of his career. Air Marshal Abubakar described late Baba-Ari as an intelligent, articulate, hardworking, resourceful and dedicated officer who was well liked and respected by his peers, subordinates and superiors alike. He stated that Baba-Ari had distinguished himself as an outstanding combat pilot who had made tangible contributions in the counter terrorism operations in the North East. He urged the family to take solace in the fact that their son was a hero, who had made the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation. He prayed that God would continue to comfort the entire family. Prayers were also offered for the peaceful repose of the deceased NAF pilot’s soul.

The CAS was accompanied on the condolence visit by a team comprising all 10 Branch Heads from NAF Headquarters as well as the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command and Commander 101 Air Defence Group, where late San Ldr Baba-Ari previously served as acting Commander. The CAS also later undertook a follow up visit to the Defence Intelligence Agency Medical Centre to check on the 2 surviving pilots, who are recuperating extremely well.

IBIKUNLE DARAMOLA
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigerian Air Force

giles14:
how I even wished that ipob was a terrorist group as you mentioned them. pls wot of them Fulani militia wot are dey

Abii oO.......

BREAKING NEWS:

Joint Task Force constituted by COAS Lt Gen TY Buratai comprising officers and soldiers from 3 Division Quick Response Team, Operation Safe Haven, Nigeria Police Force, Vehicle Inspection Office, Fire Service, as well as Local Divers have found the vehicle belonging to Maj Gen Alkali RTD at a pond in Paddock in Lafendeg Du Plateau State.
More Details later.

I.D please

Henry240:
Wasting emails and usernames for no reason. Potato generation!!

Abeg make una free my guy, Please.

R.I.P.

ugo4u:
GEJ facilitated the release of heavy funds to the military more than Bubu, but the major undoing of that administration was his service Chiefs. I'm still fantasizing what the Air force would have being if Air Marshal Sadique was at the helm of affairs during Jonathan's time. Fast forward to 2019 the reverse is the case, Bubu has not done enough in sourcing for funds, the people he should have worked in tandem with to make things easier for him he sees them as looters(National Assembly), the major undoing of this administarion is that they see lobbying as corruption, which is quite disapointing. The T72s and other hardwares the army is using were procured during GEJ's tenure.

We are sat8ng the same thing.

GEJ chiefs squandered those funds, especially the COAS with the pop belly. It's the same thing as not releasing the money
Buhari has only gotten the army MRAPS.

Henry240:
Same way Buhari has spent millions of dollars in Kidnap-for-Ransom deals.

Compared to GEJ, Buhari is lagging behind. Evidence of equipment received by the Nigerian military under both leaders have been really poor.

GEJ military chiefs really squander a lot of funds meant for procurement of hardwares.

In Compare of what is to come; Buhari is doing far better. For me he is falling shot as an ex military man he should understand better.

Lastly how much as Buhari spent on "Kidnap-for-Ransom deals"

Henry240:
The Nigerian Air Force has flown 30,000 combat missions in less than a year.

The attrition rate is well with acceptable standards. The Nigerian Air Force as a service has done really well, make no mistake.

However the service like other branches of the military require serious funding. That would mean the Nigerian Government income has to go up.

Nigeria has one of the world's worst tax to GDP ratio, 5% to GDP.

Are you willing to be taxed higher so the government can afford to properly fund the NAF, so we can purchase the high performance jets we want?

Seened:
Off topic:

A marine corp F-35B crashed some hours ago in South Carolina, USA.

Seems like a bad day for military aircrafts on noncombat missions.

These was what I just said some few hours ago , even the most modern aircrafts crashes not as a result of enemy fire. Can we just conclude that the F-35B is a flying coffin because it crashed ......

ugo4u:
because of this issue of going for SUs or Tucanoes i've being priviledged to discuss with highly experienced combat pilots, I've being a dogged promoter of the Russian sweeties till an officer schooled me on the reality on ground. Personally I believe the Sukhois are better because a turboprop does not spool up as fast as a jet engine. This however is compensated for by prop pitch control and automated engine controls. No need to keep an eye on such things as throttle position and manifold pressure. Maintaining engine “speed” is different than maintaining “power” which is how a turboprop works.The torque effect in the turboprop would be more gentle than the jet engine because rotational speed is maintained and only power level is changed compared to jet engine fortunately/unfortunately one Officer told me that the major reason why NAF currently send lots of Officers for Pilot training is because of this insurgency ish, with our limited bugdet and the kind of operations that is conducted in the NE the Tucanoes perfectly fit into the scene. Going for the SUs now is like using a sledge hammer to kill ants when you can easily use a broom to achieve a better result. We are not at war with a sophisticated enemy(One with the capability of air raid) so getting an SU for now will not be efficient like the Tucanoes with the current challenge, this can be compared to a child crying for food but he wants to eat meat instead . Unless we are buying the SUs for any eventuality in the future it remains a want and not a need.

God bless you and may wisdom never elude you.

The super tucano can deliver any weapon/munition the SUs can deliver, the Tucano can carry ISR & Strike missions on itself which the SUs do no have ISR .

The most important thing is that it very cheap to maintain considering the numbers of flight-sorties. In my own opinion it makes it the most efficient aircraft do the N.E COIN.

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Photos of Sqn Ldr MB Baba-Ari as a young pilot.

From the look of things it Was an air collision...... They where trying to perfect some air maneuver stunts.

And someone is here blaming the aircrafts that they are flying coffins.

UPDATE ON AIR INCIDENT INVOLVING 2 NIGERIAN AIR FORCE AIRCRAFT

Two Nigerian Air Force (NAF) F-7Ni aircraft taking part in the rehearsals for the aerial display to mark Nigeria’s 58th Independence Anniversary Celebrations were involved in an air incident today, 28 September 2018. The air mishap necessitated the 3 pilots to eject from their aircraft, which subsequently crashed in the general area of Katamkpe Hill. Regrettably, however, one of them later died due to complications from injuries sustained upon impact on the ground. Thankfully, there were no civilian casualties.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, on behalf of officers, airmen and airwomen of the NAF, commiserates with the family of the deceased officer. The CAS has also instituted an air crash investigation to determine the remote and immediate causes of the incident.

IBIKUNLE DARAMOLA
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigerian Air Force

giles14:
high level of ignorance? true or false ,is the F7 a flying coffin ?

The F7 jet is not a fly8ng coffin, the NAF is doing its best 8n maintaining her aircrafts. These is an administration that the total aircraft in her inventory is 75% plus airworthy, please what else do you want.

Moreover there other more developed military that's are still using older F7 jets in there inventory. We don't know the case of the crash so don't just jump into conclusion like that.

giles14:
. most you insult him,

everyone is entitled to his view.


hope we would go for better birds and dump this flying coffins.

Did you read is post....

Does it makes sense moreover is also insulting too and every body is entitled to is own opinions and insults as well

ugo4u:
YEs its true. Sqn Ldr MB Baba-Ari is the deceased Pilot.

R.I.P soldier

SLBM:
Oh give me a fucking break !!!! 3rd aircraft lost not to enemy fire but to crashes. Are you this daft?

And so funking what...... ?

You loose aircraft due to bad weather, pilot mistakes...etc which make end up in total aircraft destruction and lost of pilots life, Even developed countries do.

I can't count how many military aircrafts that crashed not as a result of enemy fire. So don't just type shot that just comes out of your brain.

R.I.P SOLDIER


I think he survived the crash and later died in the hospital, judging from the 2nd picture his right arm is fractured.

SLBM:
Oops ..another F-7N crash. What a beauty !! And all yo idiots insulting me me with the lack if priority crap, i sometimes wish its you or one of your relatives strapped into the crap you call An aircraft. Irs alright displaying your primitive and cheap mindset, but these are real human being strapped into these air coffins. Wherever d idiots..remind me again how acquiring modern airframes is waste of resources and fantasy Nigeria cannot afford. We'be lost another F-7N to a crash. How many do we have left?

Always displaying your high level of ignorance, even new aircrafts that are newly purchased and maintained crashes.

How does your claims justify the aircraft crash incidence, even if we have these 4th gen Jets already does that mean there wouldn't be aircraft crash incidence anymore. Every profession a it's own hazard.

Crash site of the NAF F-7Ni jet

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