The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reconfigured four pre-owned fuel tankers into specialised aircraft refuelling bowsers to enhance operational efficiency across its missions.
This development was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame. He noted that the initiative was carried out under the supervision of the 643 Equipment Supply Depot in Lagos.
Ejodame said the move aligns with the Chief of the Air Staff’s (CAS) commitment to proactive logistics, enhanced maintenance culture, and greater self-reliance through innovation and resourcefulness within the service.
He quoted Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the CAS, as saying: “These reconfigured bowsers represent more than just fuel on wheels; they embody our drive for self-reliance and operational adaptability. In an era where speed and sustainability of logistics are critical to mission success, the NAF cannot afford to be reactive. We must anticipate, adapt, and innovate.”
The statement emphasised that the bowsers would play a critical role in supporting ongoing air operations, especially in counterterrorism missions and joint deployments nationwide.
According to Ejodame, the reconfigured equipment will allow the NAF to maintain a consistent air presence, improve turnaround times, and deliver more decisive effects in complex operational settings.
He added that Air Marshal Abubakar views logistics as a “frontline enabler of combat power”, noting that agile and sustained responses are essential to countering asymmetric threats effectively.
One of the newly converted bowsers has already been deployed to the 407 Air Combat Training Group in Kainji, with the remaining units designated for other strategic locations across the country.
Ejodame concluded that the initiative is expected to significantly improve NAF’s operational readiness and demonstrates the service’s enduring commitment to national security and the protection of all Nigerians.
(NAN)