Nigeria will take delivery of the first six of 24 Italian M-346 light fighter-trainer aircraft by year end. Originally manufactured by Italy’s Leonardo, the M-346 has been acquired in its armed M-346FA fighter format. The jets will be used for close air support, air interdiction, and tactical reconnaissance as well as advanced pilot training. The 24 aircraft are due to be delivered in four batches of six aircraft, with 25 years of logistic support included in the contract. Leonardo will offer maintenance services in Nigeria for its other clients in the region. The M-346FA offers seven external hard points and can integrate air-to-air and air-to-surface munitions. Leonardo has sold a total of 126 M-346 trainers and M-346FA aircraft, including the sale to Nigeria.
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