Nigerian army to buy Indian attack helicopters: Report

(The Defense Post) - The Nigerian Army is close to acquiring a batch of four Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) from India.

A soft credit arrangement has been set up for the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)-developed aircraft’s first export order, Financial Express revealed, citing sources.

“The discussions between HAL and Nigerian officials are nearing completion, with an agreement expected to be finalized shortly,” the Indian outlet quoted a source as saying.

A batch of Nigerian Army officers recently completed training on HAL Dhruv helicopters, which will help them prepare for the LCH, Financial Express added.

Light Combat Helicopter

The LCH is the advanced version of the Dhruv and was inducted by the Indian Air Force in November 2021.

It is designed to operate at high altitudes of up to 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) and in extreme weather conditions.

The twin-engine attack aircraft weighs between five and eight tons and is armed with air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, a 20-millimeter gun, and several 70-millimeter rockets.

Additionally, it is being equipped with an improved electronic warfare suite, directional infrared countermeasures, and an anti-radiation missile.

The aircraft offers agility and maneuverability and is suitable for a range of roles, including combat search and rescue, destruction of enemy air defenses, and counter-insurgency operations.

Nigeria’s Aircraft Buying Spree

Meanwhile, Nigeria recently announced plans to acquire a total of 50 military aircraft to bolster its counterterrorism against Islamic insurgents and armed bandits.

The platforms include 12 AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters and a dozen more AW109 multi-purpose helicopters.

Deliveries are expected from next year.