Ukraine backs out of deal for Nigeria's aging helicopters
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) planned to sell its Mi-24 attack helicopters. Ukraine initially expressed interest in acquiring these machines, but after a thorough analysis of their technical condition, the Nigerian helicopters were deemed too outdated and damaged. This led Kyiv to back out of the transaction.
Ukraine is actively seeking affordable military equipment in various markets. As reported by the Africa Intelligence portal, it recently approached the authorities in Abuja to consider purchasing Mi-24 helicopters, which date back to the USSR era. Hasan Abubakar, the Nigerian air marshal who has been focusing on modernizing the fleet for several years, saw an opportunity to eliminate the old machines while making a profit. He proposed that Ukraine purchase three heavy attack helicopters, Mi-24V (NATO code: Hind).
Similar machines were recently transferred to Ukraine by North Macedonia. The Mi-24 is an interesting helicopter that, due to its strong armor and significant firepower, has earned the nickname "devil's chariot." The Afghans first used this term. Operational Mi-24s, which can move at over 186 mph, are currently serving successfully in the armies of Ukraine and Russia.
Ukraine does not want helicopters from Nigeria
However, Ukrainians reached out to AAL Group, a company specializing in servicing and repairing helicopters and airplanes, to request an audit of the technical condition of the helicopters offered by the Nigerians.
It was revealed that none of the three available helicopters had been operational in the air for almost ten years. All were severely corroded and lacked essential components, such as rotors and landing systems, rendering them unusable. As a result, the transaction did not take place.
Nigerian helicopter fleet
About 25 years ago, Nigeria acquired helicopters from the Mi family (Mi-24V and Mi-35P) from Ukraine and Belarus. Currently, some of these machines are in such a technical state that they serve as guard posts at the entrance to the airbase in Port Harcourt.
Nigeria regularly strengthens its air force and expands its helicopter fleet. Two years ago, it placed an order for six Turkish T129 ATAK helicopters, which it has already begun to receive. Additionally, the United States approved the sale of 12 Bell AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters to Nigeria. These are modern machines that have been ordered by NATO countries. The Nigerian air force is also to be reinforced by Leonardo M-346FA aircraft from Italy, which is planned for training and light combat roles.
The Nigerian air force is second only to the Egyptian forces in Africa in terms of numbers. Available data indicates that in 2024, the NAF had more than 18,000 personnel, seven heavy combat drones, and 117 aircraft, including 55 helicopters.
