NAF, Czech Republic to partner on technology transfer, aerospace development
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Czech Republic have agreed to strengthen defence cooperation with a strong focus on technology transfer, aerospace development and sustainable capacity building.
This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Tuesday in Abuja.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, hinted this while hosting the Junior Deputy Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic, Radka Konderlová, and her delegation at NAF Headquarters in Abuja.
Abubakar said the collaboration would support Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to build indigenous technical expertise, modernise its airpower platforms and sustain the transformation of the Air Force into an agile and resilient service.
He described the engagement as timely, noting that the NAF was undertaking deliberate reforms to improve its operational efficiency and enhance self-reliance in maintenance and logistics.
“The NAF has continued to explore ways of consolidating its transformation into an agile and resilient force.
“Technology transfer and sustainable partnerships remain vital in achieving this vision.
“I am confident that the initiatives we have outlined, anchored on mutual respect and a common commitment to global peace, will yield lasting security, mutual prosperity and a stronger partnership for both our nations,” he said.
The Czech Deputy Minister of Defence, Konderlová, stressed that her country was committed to working with Nigeria not only on aircraft maintenance and training but also on technology-driven solutions that empower local industries.
She added that the Czech Republic was keen on advancing cooperation in aerospace engineering, avionics, and unmanned aerial systems, while also supporting skills development for Nigerian technicians and engineers.
“Nigeria is a critical partner for the Czech Republic in Africa, particularly in our shared pursuit of peace and stability. Beyond defence, our partnership also carries immense potential for technology transfer and human capital development,” she said.
Both parties identified priority areas of collaboration, including logistics and sustainment for NAF’s L-39ZA fleet in partnership with Aero Vodochody, and overhaul of Mi-series helicopters.
Other areas include advanced training for aircraft technicians, as well as emerging domains such as cybersecurity, radar systems and counter-drone technologies.
