Nigerian Army Aviation has received its first aircraft – two Bell UH-1H ‘Huey’ helicopters – which were formally handed over in a ceremony at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
The aircraft (NA 010 and NA 011) were formally received by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, on Thursday 20 June in what the Nigerian Army said was a significant step forward in enhancing its operational capabilities. The arrival of the helicopters “marks a significant milestone in the development of the Nigerian Army Aviation’s capacity to provide air support for ground operations,” it said.
NA 011 was until June registered as ZT-RAI in South Africa. It was manufactured in 1966 and served with the US Army until 1996, when it was delivered to Helinet Corp in California as N313CF. It was subsequently operated by Northwest Helicopters and Turbines LLC before being delivered to South Africa in 2015.
NA 010 was until June this year registered as ZT-RCS in South Africa – it was put up for sale earlier in the year. It was manufactured in 1968 and served with the US Army before entering the civilian market as N518CB. It was exported by Northwest Helicopters to South Africa in 2014. Northwest Helicopters has specialised in the refurbishment, repair, maintenance and overhaul of UH-1H helicopters for over 40 years.
Read more: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/aerospace/ ... tion-wing/
This is a subscription only section
Want to read more? It's only €10/year.
No account yet? Just Create an account first and head to the shop