Nigerian Air Force Regiment
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Nigerian Air Force Regiment | |
|---|---|
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| Active | 2015 – present |
| Country |  Nigeria |
| Branch |  Nigerian Air Force |
| Type | |
| Role | |
| Part of | NAF Special Operations Command |
| Nicknames |
|
| Engagements | OPS LAFIYA DOLE, OPS THUNDER STRIKE, OPS SAFE HEAVEN, OPS RESCUE FINALE, OPS HADARIN DAJI , OPS SHARAN DAJI, OPS WHILR STROKE |
| Commanders | |
| Director of Regiment (DOREGT) | Air Commodore I Subi |
The Nigerian Air Force Regiment (NAF Regiment)[2] is a component of the Nigerian Air Force that serves as a specialist airfield and defense corps.The NAF Regiment is divided into two elements, we have the Force protection element and also the Special operations element.These two components form the NIGERIAN AIR FORCE REGIMENT
Background
In December 2013, Boko Haram militants launched a coordinated assault on the NAF base in Maiduguri. Reports indicated that the attackers arrived in approximately 15 to 20 vehicles, each equipped with multiple rocket launchers, and were armed with assault rifles. This well-organized attack resulted in significant damage to the base and underscored the need for enhanced security measures. Two helicopters and three decommissioned military aircraft were destroyed during the attack which had been repelled.[3]
In response to such threats, the NAF recognized the necessity for a dedicated force capable of defending its installations. Consequently, the NAF Regiment was established to provide specialized protection for air bases, aircraft, and personnel, particularly in conflict zones like the Northeast of Nigeria.
Operations
They serve to defend NAF bases, airfields and aircraft as well as protect VIPs.[4] After the attacks by Boko Haram on Nigerian Air Force installations during their insurgency, the command decided to create a specialist unit capable of providing security and protecting the Air Force interests and its bases across the country, in especially conflict zones like the North East, Maiduguri.[5] The regiment is currently operating in internal security operations in 14 states.[6] In early 2021, seven NAF Regiment servicemen died in an ambush by 100 terrorists in Kaduna State.[7]
