The US Air Force has finished constructing support facilities for the Nigerian Air Force’s A-29 Super Tucanos at Kainji Air Base.
The spaces include storage areas, munition assembly sections, an A-29 flight simulation annex, and sunshades to house the light attack aircraft.
The $38 million project began last year and serves as US Air Force Security Assistance and Cooperation’s (AFSAC) first major construction work in sub-Saharan Africa.
It is part of a $500 million foreign military sale package approved in 2018 to deliver 12 A-29s, associated training, and long-term sustainment to the Nigerian Air Force.
“This ceremony marks the end of the construction process and the turnover of new facilities to the Nigerian Air Force for its use,” AFSAC Director Brig. Gen. Joel Safranek stated.
“The A-29 provides light attack, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities needed to confront security threats and the newly constructed facilities provide the support needed to keep the aircraft operational and effective.”
“The United States looks forward to a long-term, enduring relationship with Nigeria.”
Supporting Nigeria’s National Security
According to the US Air Force, Nigeria’s Super Tucano fleet and its corresponding support facilities will contribute to enhancing the country’s defense operability.
“The facilities and the aircraft will provide the Nigerian Air Force an advantage as they support their country’s national security,” AFSAC Program Manager David Snook said.
“The A-29 is important, not only to the region, but also our collective security posture to address challenges around the world,” A-29 Nigeria Foreign Military Sales Program Manager Valerie Halvorsen added.
