NAF, PAF Strengthen Defence Partnership to Enhance Operational Readiness and Indigenous Capability
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) have deepened their strategic cooperation through a defence partnership designed to boost operational readiness, reduce sustainment costs, and advance indigenous defence capability.
This follows the visit of Major General MI Khattak, Director General, Weapons Development and Life Cycle Support of the PAF, to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, at NAF Headquarters in Abuja on 17 September 2025.
Air Marshal Abubakar stressed that the collaboration represents more than a transactional relationship, describing it as a partnership anchored in mutual growth and strategic value.
“For us in the NAF, it translates into improved operational readiness, reduced sustainment costs, and the chance to build indigenous capacity. For Pakistan, it opens new economic opportunities in Africa’s expanding defence market. Together, we can create a model of cooperation that enhances our air forces and strengthens collective security,” Abubakar said.
The CAS also highlighted potential areas of collaboration, including research, precision-guided munitions, rocket systems, weapons life-cycle support, and personnel development through training, academic exchanges, and industrial attachments with Pakistani defence institutions such as the Pakistan Ordnance Factories and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC).
In his response, Major General Khattak commended the professionalism of the NAF and emphasised Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s drive for self-reliance in air power.
“We in Pakistan deeply value this partnership with Nigeria. It reflects trust, respect, and a shared vision for self-reliance in air power. Pakistan stands ready to support the NAF in its journey towards greater operational readiness and indigenous capability, while also learning from Nigeria’s growing influence in regional security,” he said.
The meeting reaffirmed both nations’ shared commitment to advancing strategic defence cooperation, in line with the NAF’s vision for smarter air power, enhanced force protection, and safer communities.
