Latest news with #MilitaryAfrica
Business Insider
16-06-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Nigeria moves closer to acquiring 12 US-made AH-1Z viper attack helicopters
Nigeria is making steady progress toward acquiring 12 U.S.-made AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters in a strategic move to boost its air combat capabilities and strengthen national defense. Nigeria is advancing with plans to acquire 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States. The acquisition aims to enhance Nigeria's air combat and defense capabilities amid growing security challenges. High-level discussions were held between Nigerian and U.S. officials to finalize the terms and timelines. This development follows a high-level visit to the United States by Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff, who led a Nigerian delegation to a Programme Management Review Meeting held in San Diego, California, from June 9 to 13, 2025. The meeting brought together senior U.S. government officials and representatives from Bell Textron, manufacturers of the helicopters, to assess progress and fine-tune the delivery timeline. The visit marked a critical step in the procurement process, offering Nigerian defense officials direct engagement with their U.S. counterparts, including the United States Marine Corps—operators of the AH-1Z platform. According to Air Marshal Abubakar, the meetings provided Nigeria with valuable insights into best practices for operating, sustaining, and supporting the AH-1Z, a platform known for its agility, precision strike capabilities, and battlefield survivability. During the engagement, Air Marshal Abubakar expressed his deep appreciation to the U.S. Government, emphasizing the value of its longstanding strategic partnership with Nigeria. ' We are deeply grateful to the United States Government for its enduring strategic partnership with Nigeria. 'The acquisition of the AH-1Z Viper helicopters will significantly enhance the Nigerian Air Force's combat effectiveness, operational efficiency, and mission readiness. ' The acquisition comes at a time when Nigeria is facing one of the most intense waves of terrorist violence in its history, with insurgent groups launching increasingly sophisticated attacks using advanced weaponry. Deal closed after three years after initial request This deal was first discussed in 2022, when Nigeria indicated interest in purchasing 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States. After nearly three years of deliberation and diplomatic back-and-forth, the U.S. Department of Defense confirmed the sale, signaling a major milestone in Nigeria's military modernization efforts. Originally approved in April 2022, the full $997 million package includes engines, guided weapons, night vision systems, training, and logistics support as per Military Africa. The delay was largely due to U.S. concerns over human rights issues, which had stalled similar arms sales in the past. With regional security threats growing, the helicopters are expected to boost Nigeria's counterinsurgency operations and mark a new phase in U.S.-Nigeria military cooperation. The AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter The AH-1Z Viper —also known as the "Zulu Cobra" —is one of the most advanced attack helicopters in the world, developed by Bell Helicopter for the United States Marine Corps. It is an upgraded variant of the AH-1W Super Cobra and is designed for precision strike missions, close air support, and battlefield reconnaissance The platform features advanced avionics, weapons systems, and target acquisition technologies, making it one of the most capable attack helicopters in use today. The AH-1Z Viper offers a multi-mission platform that combines lethal firepower, high survivability, and advanced situational awareness—making it a valuable asset in modern asymmetrical and conventional warfare. The AH-1Z Viper features advanced targeting systems like FLIR and laser designation for precise day-and-night operations, along with radar and rangefinders for engaging ground and air threats. Its weapons include a 20mm rotary cannon, Hellfire missiles, Hydra rockets, Sidewinder missiles, and other munitions, making it a versatile and lethal combat platform. For Nigeria, it represents a significant leap in combat aviation capability, especially in counterinsurgency, anti-terrorism, and border security operations.
Morocco World
03-03-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco to Reportedly Boost Navy with Two Military Submarines
Rabat – Morocco is reportedly planning to buy two submarines to bolster the country's navy, according to an article by the American magazine Military Africa. Two European shipbuilders are running to win the bid and deliver their latest state-of-the-art submarines to the North African country. Both France's Naval Group and Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) are showcasing their latest advancement in terms of submarine designs to win a deal with Rabat. France's shipbuilder Naval Group is pulling out all the stops, offering Morocco two Scorpène-class submarines while also vying for the concession to operate a new shipyard in Casablanca. Military Africa reported that the French group's Scorpène is 'incredibly stealthy and autonomous,' with a flexible design that can be customized to Morocco's needs. This advanced submarine can integrate the latest innovations, including lithium-ion batteries, increasing endurance and technological edge. The Scorpène is also equipped with an integrated French combat system and a fully automated centralized platform control system. This ensures a high level of diving safety with a smaller crew, making it ideal for coastal waters. The relationship between Naval Group and Morocco is already in place, as the country's Royal Armed Forces have been in talks with the group for a potential submarine contract since 2021. In 2014, the company delivered a multi-mission frigate to Morocco, further solidifying its presence in the country. 'By 2022, Naval Group will be the sole bidder to manage the future Casablanca shipyard, positioning it as a frontrunner in this competition,' Military Africa wrote. On the other side, Germany's TKMS is also bringing its submarine technologies to the table with the HDW Class Dolphin AIP submarine and the HDW Class 209/1400mod. Read also: Defense: Morocco Invests in Accelerating Shift from Importer to Manufacturer TKMS' Dolphin delivers 'high operational value' with an integrated fuel cell system that significantly boosts submerged endurance, featuring a state-of-the-art combat system, and a versatile weapon expulsion system capable of launching torpedoes, missiles, and mines. Although with an older design, the HDW Class 209/1400mod remains a reliable and proven option, adding depth to Germany's bid, according to the magazine. The news comes as the North African country is working to enhance its military capabilities to improve its ability to respond to various security challenges and protect its territorial integrity. Morocco increased its defense budget for 2025 to over MAD 133 billion (approximately $13 billion), as part of a strategy to strengthen its military capabilities in the face of rising regional tensions. Tags: Morocco navyMorocco's militarySubmarine
Broadcast Pro
27-01-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Turkey advances plans for rocket launch facility in Somalia
The Somali launch site aligns with Turkey's broader ambitions to establish itself as a key player in the global space race. Turkey has reportedly started developing a rocket launch facility in Somalia, with construction beginning in December 2024, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud revealed. Speaking to Military Africa , Mohamud highlighted the projects potential to generate significant revenue and job opportunities for the East African nation. While the exact location remains undisclosed, Somalias equatorial proximity and access to the Indian Ocean make it a suitable site for rocket launches, offering reduced energy costs and safe ocean landing zones for debris. The launch facility is a pivotal component of Turkeys ambitious 10-year space programme, initiated in 2021, which aims to position the country as a global space power through satellite system advancements and spaceport developments. Beyond the space initiative, Turkey has been a major investor in Somalia, contributing to sectors such as health, education, defence and energy. Earlier in 2024, the two nations signed a deal granting Turkey 30% of Somalias exclusive economic zone revenue in exchange for rebuilding and equipping the Somali Navy. Turkeys contributions also extend to infrastructure development, including modernising Mogadishu Airport and Port, rehabilitating main roads, and enhancing public services. These investments aim to boost Somalias economy and security, fostering a stronger bilateral relationship. President Mohamud said: Somalia hosting a launchpad for Turkish satellites is even more meaningful than the billions of dollars and opportunities it will generate. Turkeys partnership with Somalia strengthens its influence in the Horn of Africa while positioning Somalia as a key regional player. The relationship, rooted in historical ties dating back to the Ottoman Empire, has deepened since Turkey reopened its Mogadishu embassy in 2011. Bilateral trade has also grown, reaching $389m in 2022, with Turkey exporting $386m worth of goods, including pasta, and Somalia exporting $2.5m, primarily in oily seeds. Tags: Turkeyrocket launchrocket launch facilityHassan Sheikh Mohamud
