US Clears $346 Million Precision Weapons Sale to Nigeria
- The US has approved a potential $346 million sale of precision bombs, rockets, and related equipment to Nigeria
- The package includes MK-82 bombs, advanced kill weapon systems, and support services from Lockheed Martin, RTX, and BAE Systems
- The deal aims to boost Nigeria’s counterterrorism and anti-trafficking capabilities without affecting regional military balance
The United States government has given the green light for a possible $346 million arms deal with Nigeria, involving advanced ammunition, guided bombs, and precision rockets.
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) confirmed the development on Wednesday, stating that Nigeria’s request covers a wide range of military hardware.
Source: Getty Images
Modern high-precision weapons among items approved
Items listed include 1,002 MK-82 general-purpose 500-pound bombs, 1,002 MXU-650 Air Foil Groups, and 5,000 units of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II, along with MK66-4 rocket motors.
The package also features FMU-139 joint programmable fuzes, bomb components, impulse cartridges, and both high-explosive and practice rockets.
Additional provisions include integration support, testing equipment, and technical assistance from US government personnel and contractors.
The deal names Lockheed Martin, RTX Missiles and Defence, and BAE Systems as the principal suppliers. Lockheed Martin is widely recognised for producing the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet, C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, and advanced missile defence systems.
RTX, the second-largest defence contractor globally by revenue, is known for its aircraft engines, guided missiles, radar systems, and cybersecurity technologies.
Source: Getty Images
BAE Systems, based in London, ranks as Europe’s largest defence manufacturer, producing everything from naval vessels and armoured vehicles to high-tech defence electronics.
Sales meant to fortify Nigeria's arsenal
According to the DSCA, the planned sale is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security capacity, particularly in countering terrorism and disrupting illicit trafficking in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.
The agency said the transfer aligns with US foreign policy and security priorities by bolstering the capabilities of a key partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Officials also stressed that the transaction would not disrupt the existing military balance in the region and that Nigeria is expected to integrate the new equipment into its forces without difficulty.
The agency noted that the approved figures represent the maximum potential quantities and value, with the final scope dependent on budget allocations, operational needs, and formal agreements.
This latest development follows the US government’s 2022 approval of a $997 million package for Nigeria, which included 12 attack helicopters, precision weapon guidance systems, and night vision equipment.
Immigration issues fresh warning to Nigerians over US visas
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that NIS warned Nigerians against US visa misuse, citing concerns from the US government over overstaying and changing travel purposes without authorisation.
Breaching visa terms may lead to deportation, permanent bans, or visa revocation, including for students who skip classes or change programmes without notice.
US cracks down on “birth tourism”, directing consular officers to deny visas if childbirth appears to be the main purpose of travel.
Source: Legit.ng
