MD Helicopters (MDH) disclosed on September 28, 2023, that they have finalized a contract with the Nigerian government to supply twelve MD530F Cayuse Warrior scout/attack helicopters.
These helicopters are slated for deployment by the Nigerian Army Aviation to address the nation’s security concerns. Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, indicated that the Cayuse Warrior helicopters would bolster the operational capabilities of the army’s aviation unit. This unit was established to enhance the mobility, responsiveness, and effectiveness of ground forces during missions.
The contract encompasses a comprehensive Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) package, replacement parts, and training programs for both pilots and maintenance crews. A simulator is also included in the agreement. The first batch of MD530Fs is anticipated to be delivered in the final quarter of 2023.
In addition to the Cayuse Warrior helicopters, the purchase of Bell AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters is still in progress. The U.S. State Department had previously approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Nigeria of twelve AH-1Z attack helicopters and related equipment, estimated at $997 million, in April 2022. The package includes 2,000 guidance sections for the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) and a 20mm M197 machine gun, but will not feature AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles.