The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshall Hasan Abubakar has emphasized the importance of strengthening strategic partnerships with other Air Forces as a means to address the challenges faced in pilot training.
Speaking at the Future Air Force 2023 Conference in Prague, Czech Republic, Air Marshal Abubakar announced the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) commitment to enhancing its collaboration with the Czech Air Force in various areas such as technology transfer, capacity building, research, and development.
This partnership aims to boost the proficiency of NAF maintenance crews, leading to reduced aircraft downtime and improved air operations.
During his meeting with Major General Petr Cepelka, Commander of the Czech Air Force, Air Marshal Abubakar also sought cooperation in counterterrorism, counterinsurgency, and pilot training. He acknowledged the historical support provided by the Czech Air Force to the NAF, starting with the purchase of L-39 aircraft in 1986.
Over the years, both forces have collaborated on pilot training programs, including the use of L-39Z aircraft simulators, altitude chambers, and spatial disorientation training, which have significantly enhanced NAF’s combat capabilities.
In response, Major General Petr Cepelka expressed gratitude for the longstanding relationship between the NAF and the Czech Air Force and assured continued support in aircraft acquisition, maintenance, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations, and training of NAF Special Forces.
In a paper presented at the conference titled “Pilot Training in the Nigerian Air Force – An Assessment,” Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the increasing significance of air power capabilities in addressing security challenges emanating from both state and non-state actors. He emphasized the NAF’s constitutional role in safeguarding Nigeria’s security and the need to maintain a diverse range of credible air power capabilities, along with a highly trained and adaptable air force. However, he recognized the challenges posed by high operational demands, economic constraints, and limited technological expertise in pilot training.
Furthermore, Air Marshal Abubakar held discussions with Aero Vodochody, the Original Equipment Manufacturers of the NAF L-39Z aircraft, addressing issues related to overhaul scheduling, avionics upgrades, and other matters.
The Future Air Force 2023 Conference, themed “Challenges of Modern Air Force Training Solutions,” marked its inaugural edition in Prague, Czech Republic. The well-attended event drew over 100 officials from 29 countries, as well as representatives from aviation-related industries such as Lockheed Martin, Aero Vodochody, SAAB, and OMNIPOL, who shared insights into the latest trends in defense and security technologies.
