TAI Delivers T129 ATAK Attack Helicopter to Nigeria
TAI Delivers First Batch of T129 ATAK Helicopters to Nigeria
In a significant development, Turkey’s TAI (Turkish Aerospace Industries) has delivered the first batch of T129 ATAK Attack and Tactical Reconnaissance Helicopters to Nigeria. The helicopters were handed over to Nigerian authorities two days ago, marking a major milestone in the defense cooperation between the two nations.
Nigeria had recently placed an order for a total of six T129 ATAK helicopters from TAI. The delivery of the initial batch, consisting of two T129 ATAKs, has now been successfully completed. Notably, this makes Nigeria the second country, after the Philippines, to receive exports of the highly regarded T129 ATAK helicopters from Turkey.
According to reports, the second batch of two T129 ATAKs is scheduled to be delivered to Nigeria in the second quarter of 2024. It is expected that Nigeria will eventually increase its order to a total of six T129 ATAK units, highlighting the country’s confidence in the capabilities of these advanced helicopters.
The T129 ATAK helicopter has earned a reputation as the top attack helicopter in its class worldwide. Renowned for its cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance, the T129 ATAK has become a preferred choice for defense forces around the globe.
Featuring a powerful armament, the T129 ATAK is capable of carrying 500 rounds of 20-millimeter gun ammunition, 16 Roketsan CİRİT Missiles, 8 L-UMTAS or UMTAS Missiles, 8 Stinger Missiles, or 76 pieces of 70-millimeter rockets. The helicopter is equipped with two LHTEC-CTS800-4A Turboshaft Engines, each generating 1,373 shp, enabling it to achieve a top speed of 281 km/h. With an impressive airtime of 3 hours, a range of 537 kilometers, and an altitude ceiling of 15,000ft, the T129 ATAK ensures unparalleled operational capabilities.
The delivery of T129 ATAK helicopters to Nigeria is a testament to Turkey’s robust defense industry and its commitment to providing advanced defense solutions to its international partners. The collaborative efforts between Turkey and Nigeria in strengthening their defense capabilities are expected to further enhance the strategic ties between the two nations.
Source: DefenseSanayiST.com
