NAF, Czech Republic Deepen Defence Synergy For Enhanced Security Development

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening strategic defence cooperation with the Czech Republic as part of efforts to enhance national security and regional stability.

This was disclosed by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, on 19 August 2025, while receiving the Czech Republic’s Junior Deputy Minister of Defence, Radka Konderlová, and her delegation at NAF Headquarters, Abuja.

He described the visit as a reflection of the long-standing friendship between both nations and their shared commitment to peace and aerospace advancement.

The CAS also highlighted NAF’s transformation into a resilient and agile force, stressing its sustained operations against terrorism and piracy which have reinforced Nigeria’s role in safeguarding regional and global security.

In her remarks, Deputy Minister Konderlová reaffirmed her country’s readiness to broaden cooperation with Nigeria, describing air defence as the backbone of national security and Nigeria as one of the Czech Republic’s biggest partners in Africa.

She stressed the importance of technology transfer and sustainable capacity-building, noting that beyond defence, the partnership carries immense potential for human capital development, local industry empowerment, and national growth.

According to her, the collaboration would not only strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture but also contribute significantly to economic development and global peace.

Both parties identified key areas of collaboration, including logistics support for the NAF’s L-39ZA fleet, overhaul and acquisition of Mi-series helicopters, training for aircraft technicians, and advancements in aerospace engineering, avionics, and unmanned aerial systems.

NAF also expressed interest in cybersecurity, space technology, radar systems, counter-drone solutions, and signal interception technologies with leading Czech firms such as Aero Vodochody, Avast, RETIA, and ERA.

Air Marshal Abubakar expressed optimism that the initiatives outlined, anchored on mutual respect and a common commitment to peace, would deliver enduring benefits for both nations and contribute to Africa’s security and prosperity.