Nigeria strengthens defense with T-129 Atak helicopters from Türkiye

Nigeria has enhanced its military capabilities with the acquisition of two more T-129 Atak helicopters from Türkiye’s Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), bringing its fleet to four.

These helicopters were ceremonially handed over to the Nigerian Air Force as part of ongoing defense agreements. In addition to the helicopters, Nigeria has procured 1,456 unguided 2.75-inch rockets, 30 L-Umtas laser-guided anti-tank missiles, and 50 laser-guided Cirit missiles. Negotiations are reportedly underway for a broader defense deal exceeding $2 billion.

Why it matters?

• The addition of Atak helicopters and advanced weaponry provides Nigeria with enhanced capabilities for precision military operations.
• These systems are vital for counterinsurgency efforts and safeguarding national security, strengthening Nigeria’s position as a key player in regional security.

What’s the context?

Türkiye has emerged as a global leader in defense technology, with its domestic defense companies making significant progress over the last two decades.

TAI, the manufacturer of the T-129 Atak helicopters, has gained international recognition for its high-quality military products.

Nigeria’s adoption of these systems reflects the country’s trust in Türkiye’s defense expertise and its commitment to modernizing its military infrastructure.

T129 Atak’s specifications

The T129 Atak is a twin-engine, tandem-seat, multi-role attack helicopter designed for armed reconnaissance and attack missions. Equipped with advanced avionics and a variety of weapon options, the helicopter is capable of operating effectively in challenging geographical and operational conditions. The helicopter’s weapon systems include:

• Up to 8 Umtas (long-range anti-tank missiles)
• Eight Stinger air-to-air missiles
• 20 mm three-barreled Gatling-type gun with a 500-round capacity
• 76 unguided 70 mm rockets or 16 Cirit laser-guided missiles

Additional developments

UAV Aavancements with domestic engines

• The Bayraktar TB3 UAV, renowned for its ability to take off and land on short-runway ships, has accumulated 823 flight hours powered by the domestically developed TEI-PD170 engine.
• When integrated into other UAVs such as Anka and Aksungur, the engine has contributed to a total of over 2,000 flight hours for Türkiye’s unmanned aerial fleet.
• These advancements highlight Türkiye’s focus on self-reliant technological development.

Pakistan to host new ammunition production facility

Turkish defense company Repkon has signed a contract to establish an artillery shell production facility in Pakistan.

This facility will have the capacity to produce and fill up to 120,000 155mm artillery shells annually. Repkon has previously built similar facilities for the U.S. Department of Defense, further underscoring Türkiye’s growing global influence in defense manufacturing.

Bottom line

Türkiye’s defense industry, led by innovators like TAI, continues to expand its global footprint by forming strategic partnerships with nations like Nigeria and Pakistan.

These collaborations not only showcase Türkiye’s cutting-edge military technologies but also reinforce its reputation as a reliable and capable global defense supplier.