BY ODILI CHRISTEL
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has conducted a live test firing of some of its fighter jets and armed helicopter used in combating Boko Haram
insurgents and other internal security challenges in the country. The test firing exercise tagged “Weapons Meet” took place at the NAF Air Range site in Kwenev, Benue State as part of activities making the 53 Anniversary Celebration of the Service.
During The air range exercise, the newly re-enrolled L39ZA, Alpha Jets, F7Ni interceptor and the armed Augusta helicopter were in action firing different air-to-surface munitions in showcasing the NAF capability to protect not only the territorial integrity of the nation but in projection of Airpower to the maintenance of peace in west Africa sub region.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Gabriel Olonisakin who was the Guest of Honour at the event extolled the brilliant performance exhibited by the NAF fighter pilots noting that the essence of the exercise was to sharpen the skills and enhance the performance of the pilots and he was highly optimistic that it would reflect in the conduct of subsequent air combat operations in the country.
While congratulating the NAF on attainment of 53 years of existence, General Olonisakin affirmed that the Service has done quite well in performance of its statutory roles and other assigned responsibilities within and outside the country and it is still doing more.
Speaking further, the CDS commended the exceptional performance of the NAF in the area of research and development and encouraged other Services to emulate the visionary steps of the NAF toward becoming becoming self-reliance in the field of technology.
On his part, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abuabakar disclosed that the desire of the NAF was to improve on its capability and groomed professionals that can deliver at every point in time, saying that was the aim of the exercise.
According to the CAS, “I think what is important is for us to realize that the desire impact of the Air Force is to have a stable and secured environment where everyone can go about their lawful businesses. We are working round the clock to ensure that we sustain the relative peace among us all,” he said.