– The memories of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Day Celebration 2017 is still fresh
– It was the day the NAF launched its newly acquired Mi-35M attack helicopters
– Wing Commander Mohammed Bello Umar, a pilot on the helicopter explains the features of the newly acquired equipment
Wing Commander Mohammed Bello Umar, a pilot on the newly acquired Mi-35M attack helicopters by NAF has explained some of the distinct features of the machine.
Umar spoke to reporters at the NAF Day Celebration 2017 held at the NAF Base in Makurdi, Benue state.
According to him, the helicopter is an improved and modernised version of the Mi-24 which the NAF already have in their possession.
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Wing Commander Mohammed Bello Umar, a pilot on the newly acquired Mi-35M attack helicopter
His words: ‘’The Mi-35m is a modernized version of the Mi-24 attack helicopter. It is capable of conducting 24-hours round the clock day and night operations in simple and complex weather conditions.
‘’The helicopter has a range of weaponry, ranging from rockets, cannons, guns, with more precise aiming systems to enable us attack targets more accurate.
‘’It has a visual camera that allows us operate the helicopter both during the day and at night.”
Asked about the quality of pictures in the helicopter, Umar said: ‘’At night we don’t use visual cameras, we use infrared camera because objects
‘’Using that camera, we are able to acquire the target, designate accordingly and then engage”.
Responding to a question on the difference between the Mi-35m and other helicopters used for counter-terrorism efforts.
He said: ‘’This helicopter has more powerful engines; it enables us to operate in high temperature regions like the North East and all over the country because it can operate at high altitudes.
‘’Jet engines especially for helicopters, the higher the altitudes, the higher the temperature before the performance. However with these machines, we have newer engines which allow us to operate over a wide range of environment all over the country.”
He added that their operations will cover the whole of the country, stressing that they are ready to carry out the orders of the federal government anytime they are called upon.
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Meanwhile, NAF successfully test fired 30.1mm ground to air Inert Head Rockets locally produced by its research and development team.
The rockets were test fired during the Weapons Meet at Kwenev Air Range, Makurdi to commemorate the 53rd anniversary celebration of the NAF.
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