The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to enhance its cyber defense capabilities through a strategic partnership with NASBIT Systems and Services Ltd and ELTA Systems Ltd, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). This collaboration was discussed during a visit on 27 August 2024 by teams from NASBIT and ELTA Systems, led by NASBIT’s Managing Director and CEO, Air Vice Marshal (Dr) Aliyu Bello (Rtd), to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, at NAF Headquarters in Abuja.

AVM Bello (Rtd) highlighted ELTA Systems' expertise in delivering cutting-edge solutions across sectors such as homeland security, unmanned aerial systems, Intelligence Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR). He noted that these capabilities are vital to NAF's ongoing innovation efforts and commended the CAS for the achievements recorded under his leadership. He emphasized that the partnership aims to advance Nigeria's defense capabilities, ensuring that the NAF remains at the forefront of technology and security in a digital world.

In his response, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing NAF’s commitment to maintaining a robust defense posture in the evolving domain of cyber warfare. He acknowledged the collaboration with NASBIT and ELTA Systems as a significant opportunity to enhance NAF's capabilities in critical areas, leveraging innovative solutions to address the challenges of modern warfare.

The delegation from NASBIT Systems included AVM Nazif Aliyu (Rtd), AVM Sule Lawal (Rtd), and Mr Sanusi Bello, along with ELTA Systems representatives Mr Dror Shrem and Mr Lior Frumkez.