The United States of America has
finally approved a $593 million sale to Nigeria of A-29 Super Tucano attack
planes with associated parts, training, facilities and weapons.
United Press International, UPI,
published that, “The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered their
certification of the foreign military sale to Congress, as required by law, on
August 2.
According to UPI, “The twelve
A-29s will be used by Nigeria to combat the Islamist militia Boko Haram and
other extremist groups, such as the Islamic State West Africa splinter group.
It will also serve to counter smuggling and other trafficking in Nigeria and
the Gulf of Guinea.
“The DSCA has determined that
U.S. security interests are served by assisting Nigeria in its
counter-insurgency operations and that the A-29 sale will not significantly
alter the military balance of power in the region.”
It reports that, “The contract
will require U.S. Government or private contractors to provide training and
support, and will include instruction on rules of engagement and human rights
to help prevent civilian casualties.”
Explaining further, the news
agency noted that, “The Embraer A-29 Super Tucano is a turboprop light attack
plane in service with countries across the world. It is designed for
counter-insurgency operations and close-air support in areas lacking significant
air defenses. It is also widely used as a training aircraft.
“It is a contender in the U.S.
Air Force’s OA-X light attack aircraft competition for a low-cost and easy to
operate and maintain air support platform.
According to UPI, light planes
like the Tucano “can fulfill air support and surveillance needs in low-risk
environments at a much lower operational cost than heavier jets like the A-10
or F-16 and require less flight and maintenance training.”
Recall that past attempts to
procure the plane under the Obama administration was frustrated by accusations
of human rights abuses against the Nigerian military.
We will use it against those agitating for Biafra.
ReplyDeleteNo problems until then. We are not afraid of death. It's better to die while pursuing what u believe in than to remain in suffering in the hands of people you are 1000 times better than in all aspects of life. @ firauna.
ReplyDeleteWatch ur tongue firauna, before it lands u in a serious problem. I cannot abhore in ur pothole
ReplyDeleteWatch ur tongue firauna, before it lands u in a serious problem. I cannot abhore in ur pothole
ReplyDelete