SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
During a high-profile visit to Nigeria by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, both nations have taken a significant step forward in fostering deeper collaboration in defence, economic development, and food security. A series of agreements were signed on November 12, cementing the growing partnership between India and Nigeria. Among the key highlights of the visit, India has offered its LCA-Tejas Mk1A fighter jet to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as part of a broader deal to enhance Nigeria’s air combat capabilities.
As part of the agreements, India has extended a USD 200 million Line of Credit to Nigeria, specifically aimed at facilitating the procurement of the LCA-Tejas Mk1A from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Nigeria is looking to replace its ageing fleet of Chengdu F-7NI fighter jets, which are increasingly seen as obsolete in the face of modern aerial warfare technology. The LCA-Tejas Mk1A, a cutting-edge single-engine multi-role combat aircraft, is being positioned as a more advanced and cost-effective alternative.
In contrast, the LCA-Tejas Mk1A offers several advantages over the Chinese JF-17 Thunder, another single-engine multirole fighter that is also under consideration by Nigeria. While both the Tejas and the JF-17 offer similar capabilities, the LCA-Tejas Mk1A has an edge in terms of Indian operational experience and advanced avionics. Moreover, India’s offer is paired with the USD 200 million Line of Credit, which makes the deal more financially accessible for Nigeria.
According to official sources who spoke to idrw.org, with the Indian Line of Credit in place, Nigeria will initially be able to procure 4-5 LCA-Tejas Mk1A fighter jets. The Indian government has also indicated that the number of jets could be increased in subsequent batches, ultimately reaching the targeted 15 jets as part of a long-term procurement plan. The flexibility of the agreement and the potential for phased procurement ensures that Nigeria can strengthen its air power over time while managing its defence budget effectively.
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