Cayuse Warrior Plus for the Nigerian Army

MD Helicopters obtained an order from the Nigerian Army for 12 Cayuse Warrior Plus helicopters with a possible further 24 on option.

With this order, MD Helicopters found its initial customer for the type and based on this deal and potential additional sales orders it will increase its production line capabilities in Mesa (AZ). The Nigerian Army will use the scout/attack helicopter to assist in counter insurgency and counter terrorism operations.

The Cayuse Warrior Plus is a derivative of the Cayuse Warrior and is a purpose built military helicopter rather than a commercial platform with military components. Whilst starting as an MD530 hull it is being strengthened quite early in the production process. Other changes compared to the standard Cayuse Warrior consist of improved avionics, better power performance, strengthened landing gear and a sensor dome under the nose that enables the use of precision guided weapons such as AGM-114 Hellfire rockets and guided missiles.

However, although the US State Department approved a weapons sale and military support to Nigeria in April 2022, members of the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee are trying to block arms sales and asked the US government for a review of security assistance and cooperation programmes in Nigeria.

Photo by MD Helicopters