NAF Strengthens Helicopter Maintenance Capacity Through A109 Trekker Type Training in Italy

Sesto Calende, Italy – February 20, 2026

In line with its commitment to strengthening technical expertise and sustaining operational readiness, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has trained four of its personnel on the Airframe Maintenance Type Training Course for the A109 Trekker Helicopter at the Leonardo Helicopter Division Facility in Sesto Calende, Italy.

The training programme, which ran from January 12 to February 20, 2026, combined intensive theoretical and practical sessions designed to deepen the participants’ technical knowledge of the aircraft.

During the course, the personnel received detailed instruction on the identification of AW109S Trekker helicopter systems and subsystems, their modes of operation, and essential procedures for effective maintenance and troubleshooting required to keep the aircraft in an airworthy condition.

The programme also emphasised the correct interpretation and application of maintenance manuals, a critical aspect of ensuring safe, efficient and standardised aircraft maintenance practices.

The initiative aligns with the command philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, which prioritises deliberate capacity development, technical excellence and continuous professional advancement of personnel to enhance mission effectiveness.

By investing in specialised training with original equipment manufacturers and globally recognised aviation institutions, the Nigerian Air Force continues to strengthen its technical workforce to effectively sustain its modern fleet and support ongoing air operations.

At the end of the training, the participating personnel were awarded certificates in recognition of their successful completion of the programme.

This development underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to building a highly skilled and professional force capable of maintaining advanced aviation platforms and supporting national security operations.