SOURCE: AFI
Talks between India and Nigeria on the possible sale of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A have gained momentum as both nations explore avenues for defense collaboration. India is looking to capitalize on its growing presence in Africa to not only export more domestically produced defense equipment but also to access new markets and solidify its global standing.
Nigeria’s air force relies heavily on aging or obsolete platforms, including the Alpha Jet, MiG-21, and F-7. The nation also possesses a limited fleet of three JF-17 Thunder jets, co-developed by China and Pakistan, acquired in 2018.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Chairman and Managing Director, CB Ananthakrishnan, sees the Tejas Mk1A as a strong contender to meet Nigeria’s requirements for modernizing its air force. The Tejas Mk1A is a single-engine, multirole fighter jet capable of undertaking air defense, reconnaissance, and strike missions.
Whether Nigeria chooses the Tejas Mk1A or opts for competitor offerings like the Chinese JF-17 remains to be seen. However, the ongoing talks highlight India’s proactive approach to defense exports and its deepening relationship with African nations.