Nigeria signs for Cayuse Warrior Plus light attack helicopters

Nigeria is set to become the latest customer of the MD 530F light attack helicopter, with the announcement that a deal has now been finalised. (MDH)

Nigeria has signed for MD Helicopters (MDH) MD 530F Cayuse Warrior Plus (CWP) light attack helicopters, the company announced on 28 September.

The Arizona-based company said it has finalised a deal to supply the West African country with its CWP helicopters, closing out a deal that was first disclosed in March.

“MD Helicopters closed a contract with the Nigerian federal government for 12 MD 530F Cayuse Warrior Plus scout/attack helicopters during a signing ceremony in Nigeria,” MDH said.

MDH did not disclose a contract value, but said it will begin delivering the aircraft to Nigeria in the fourth quarter of 2023.

While the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fields a range of attack and assault helicopters, including the AgustaWestland AW109, Mil Mi-24/35 ‘Hind', and Aerospatiale SA 342 Gazelle, the CWPs are earmarked for the Nigerian Army, whose aviation capabilities are being re-established amid the Boko Haram crisis.

“The aircraft will be operated by the Nigerian Army Aviation to effectively tackle the security challenges in the country. The acquisition of the new attack helicopters is part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government of Nigeria to enhance the capacity of the Nigerian Army Aviation towards achieving constitutional responsibilities in a joint environment,” MDH said.