In a bid to strengthen its air defense capabilities, Nigeria has turned to China’s Norinco for support. A delegation from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), led by Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, visited China from April 20 to 25, 2025. The visit aimed to deepen partnerships with leading Chinese defense firms, particularly in the areas of radar coverage and air defense systems.

During the five-day trip, the delegation toured cities including Beijing, Hefei, Nanjing, and Xi’an, engaging with officials from China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) and China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO). They received briefings on advanced radar systems, air defense capabilities, and command and control technologies. Demonstrations of the Sky Dragon Weapon System and High Energy Laser Counter-UAV systems were also part of the agenda.

Air Vice Marshal Suleiman Kabir Usman, representing the Chief of the Air Staff, expressed confidence in the technical expertise of the Chinese companies. He noted that further engagements would ensure the successful execution and sustainability of the project. The delegation also discussed long-term initiatives, such as talent development for NAF cadets and the establishment of a Radar Maintenance and Research Facility in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s current air defense structure is primarily managed by the NAF and relies on outdated systems. The country operates only 16 Roland II Short Range Air Defence (SHORAD) systems, acquired in the 1980s. These aging platforms are ill-equipped to counter modern threats like cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Additionally, the small number of systems is insufficient to protect Nigeria’s vast territory and economic assets.

Other components of Nigeria’s air defense include the Soviet-era ZSU-23-4 Shilka anti-aircraft system, which lacks the technological sophistication needed for today’s aerial threats. The Skyguard Fire-Control Radar paired with Oerlikon GDF cannons provides some defensive capability, but these systems are also outdated and inadequate for comprehensive coverage.

In terms of fighter aircraft, the NAF’s fleet is limited, consisting of just 12 F-7Ni “Airguard” and 3 JF-17 “Thunder” fighters. This small number falls well below what is required for effective air superiority or territorial defense.

Radar coverage remains a weak point, although the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) program is working to improve this through modernization efforts, including discussions with Chinese defense partners for advanced radar systems.

This latest development is part of an ongoing defence relations between Nigeria and Norinco. On March 18, a senior delegation from China’s North Industries Corporation (Norinco) arrived in Abuja, signaling a deepening of defense ties between China and Nigeria. Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, welcomed the delegation, framing the engagement as a cornerstone of the nation’s ambition to achieve self-reliance in defense production

Upgrading Nigeria’s air defense is essential for national security due to both internal and external threats. Internally, the country faces persistent insurgencies, notably from groups like Boko Haram. While air defense systems do not directly target insurgents, a modernized air force can enhance ground operations through improved reconnaissance and precision strikes, bolstering overall counterterrorism efforts.

Externally, as Africa’s largest economy and a major oil producer, Nigeria is a potential target for aerial incursions, including drone attacks or aggression from state and non-state actors. Outdated systems leave critical infrastructure and airspace vulnerable.

Additionally, Nigeria plays a strategic role in regional stability through peacekeeping missions and partnerships like the Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership. A robust air defense enhances its ability to project power and protect national interests.

Recognizing these gaps, Nigeria is exploring upgrades such as the Rheinmetall Skyguard 3 system and advanced radar solutions like the Sky Dragon Weapon System. These initiatives are vital to replacing obsolete equipment with technology capable of addressing 21st-century threats.

The visit to China highlights the NAF’s commitment to leveraging global partnerships and cutting-edge technology to strengthen Nigeria’s defense capabilities. By engaging with Norinco and other Chinese firms, Nigeria aims to bolster its fledgling air defense structure and ensure the security of its airspace and critical assets.

Meanwhile, China is looking to expand its military and economic influence in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous and largest economy, by establishing its military industry in the country. This was revealed by the Ambassador of China to Nigeria, Cui Jian Chun, during his visit to the then Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, in Abuja in November 2023.

Moreover, Norinco recently inaugurated a new office in the capital city of Senegal, Dakar, another West Africa nation. This strategic step reflects Norinco’s burgeoning footprint in West Africa’s military procurement arena.

Nigeria has procured a wide variety of combat systems from China which includes 105 mm Fire Support Vehicle, VT-4 Main Battle Tank, SH-5 105mm self-propelled Artillery System, and  SH-2 122mm self-propelled artillery systems. These hardware arrived in April 2020.

Subsequent delivery of additional hardware comprising of VT4 main battle tanks, ST1 120 mm tanks destroyers, SH2, SH4 self-propelled artillery, and KIA tactical vehicles arrived in October 2020.

The Nigerian Army already operates 120 NORINCO CS/VP3 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle (MRAP) delivered in 2015.