Nigerian Air
Force (NAF) is set to induct the two newly acquired Mi-35M attack helicopters
into its inventory as it prepares to carry out renewed aerial bombardment
of
Boko Haram terrorists.
According to daily post report, the Russian
jets will also be used to bombard militants terrorizing Lagos and Niger Delta
creeks.
Findings by
DAILY POST show that the Mi-35M is powered by two Klimov VK-2500 turbo-shaft
engines.
It has an
updated navigation and avionics suite which features multi-function coloured
displays and target sighting systems, including a thermal imager and laser
rangefinder.
Apart from
the attack role, the Mi-35M can be used for landing or transporting up to 8
fully-equipped paratroopers.
On Tuesday,
Chairman of Organising Committee, NAF DAY Celebrations 2017, Air Vice Marshal
(AVM), Isiaka Amao, told newsmenthat more of the latest version of Mi-35M are
expected from Russia, while trained pilots will be deployed in conflict zones
across the country.
He noted
that the Air Force has expanded their scope of operations beyond the North
Eastern enclaves of Boko Haram, having almost achieved their mission in the
area.
His words:
“Two Mi-35M are to be inducted and more are being expected. Others are actually
on their way.
“We are
focusing beyond the North East not just because we have decimated the Boko
Haram terrorists but because there are other security challenges in other parts
of the country.
“So we are
looking at the country as a whole not just limited to the Boko Haram issue.
“The Mi-35M
is an attack helicopters with precision strike and night vision capability. It
is a new version of Mi-35M. It is one of the best in the world and all weather.
“We have
been able to sniff out Boko Haram from their enclaves, also in South South we
have been able to limit the activities of the Niger Delta militants.
“There is
also appreciable activities in the North West and North Central where we have
limited the activities of the herdsmen and cattle rustling,” he added.
Speaking
further, Amao added that the 2017 NAF Day Celebration is on the theme
“Employment of Air Power for Enduring National Security”.
Amao also
listed series of activities slated to mark the celebration to include: medical
outreach, Air weapons meet, gala night, ceremonial parade and winging of new
pilots.
Others are
presentation of colours to Special Operations Command, induction of the Mi-35M
as well as aerial and static display.
The
organising committee chairman also said that Medical outreach programme will be
conducted throughout the period of the celebration for people living within the
immediate host communities around NAF Bases.
“This offers
the unique opportunity to give back to the society. It is also a viable medium
to appreciate Nigerians for their support and goodwill over the years,” he
added.
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