NAF begins local test bench production on Alpha jet

Abuja—The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has, in collaboration with universities in the country,  successfully produced a test bench locally for testing the anti-skid system on Alpha Jet planes The new test bench allows the entire anti-skid system to be tested on the ground before installation on the
aircraft, unlike what hitherto obtained where test on the aircraft component was carried out in parts. This feat has not only saved the country huge foreign exchange that otherwise would have been spent abroad, it also marks a major research and development breakthrough for the NAF in its drive towards developing local capacity for self-reliance. The feat is also a major plus for the NAF in its conduct of offensive air operations in North-East. , given the crucial role played by the Alpha Jets in the ongoing counterinsurgency operation against Boko Haram terrorists.
A statement by Group Captain Ayodele Famuyiwa, Director, NAF Public Relations, said “those involved in the collaborative effort with the Air Force Research and Development Centre include Professor Mohammed Dauda from Ahmadu University Zaria as well as Kabiru Abdulwahab and Mahammad Shuwa from University of Maiduguri.” Others include Professors JD Jiya, EE Omixegba,  Mohammed Baahir and Dr Kabiru Ibrahim from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University. He said the team from  the universities helped NAF with the repairs of faulty gyro and UHF/VHF radio systems, which had been a recurrent issue on the Alpha Jet due to age. Meanwhile, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, has promised to give more aircraft maintenance work to the team to spur technological growth and save the country scarce resources. The CAS made the disclosure in Kaduna while appreciating the combined team of professionals from Nigerian universities for their spirited effort and contribution to national development.