# NAVAIR Produces AH-1Z Helicopters for Nigeria

Bell Textron Inc. has commenced production of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force under a **$455 million** firm-fixed-price contract awarded by the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) in March 2024. Delivery is now scheduled for early 2029, reflecting a multi-year Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program that supports Nigeria's counterterrorism capabilities. This contract includes not only aircraft production at Bell's Amarillo Assembly Center in Texas but also extensive collaboration on training, logistics, and support infrastructure involving U.S. and Nigerian defense officials.

- **Why this matters:** This contract represents a significant U.S. defense export supporting regional security in Africa and highlights opportunities for contractors in aviation production, training, and sustainment services.
- Procurement professionals should note the extended delivery timeline through 2029, indicating long-term program management and potential follow-on support contracts.
- Companies specializing in military aviation logistics and training may find opportunities to engage through the FMS framework and bilateral cooperation efforts.
- The involvement of multiple U.S. government entities, including NAVAIR, U.S. Africa Command, and the State Department, underscores the interagency coordination required for international defense sales and support.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence, Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 19, 2026

### Government Entities
- Nigerian Air Force (NAF)
- U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR)
- U.S. State Department
- U.S. Marine Corps H-1 Light/Attack Helicopter Program Office
- U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM)

### Vendors
- Bell Textron Inc. (prime contractor)

### Sources
- [Bell Textron has started production on the first of 12 AH-1Z Viper helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force under a $455M NAVAIR contract. Delivery is now projected for early 2029. #aviation #aerospace

https://t.co/TJw0KxARl5](https://x.com/AirProNews/status/2101354076172702150) - twitter-defense