The US Department of Defence has announced a contract award to Bell, a division of Textron, for the production and delivery of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters to the government of Nigeria.

Valued at $455 million, this procurement deal underscores the commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities and fostering regional security cooperation.

Under the terms of the contract, Bell will provide not only the AH-1Z Viper helicopters, but also program management and logistics support. The manufacturing and delivery of these helicopters will be carried out in Texas, with completion expected by July 2028.

The package includes essential equipment such as guidance systems, night vision imaging systems, and comprehensive training programs for Nigerian personnel.

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AH-1Z Viper characteristics:

• Crew: Two 
• Length: 17.75 m
• Height: 4.37 m
• Empty weight: 5,579 kg
• Max take-off weight: 8,391 kg
• Powerplant: 2 × General Electric T700-GE-401C turboshaft 
• Main rotor diameter: 15 m (4-bladed main and tail rotors)
• Cruise speed: 300 km/h
• Maximum operational range: 690 km
• Service ceiling: 6,100 m
• Rate of climb:14.2 m/s
• Armament: Guns: 1 × 20 mm M197 three-barreled rotary cannon (750 round ammo capacity) / 6 Hardpoints with a maximum capacity of 2,615 kg, with provisions to carry combinations of rockets – 70 mm Hydra 70 (unguided) or APKWS II (guided); up to 76 unguided or 38 guided rockets total – / missiles – 2 AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles / 16 AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-surface missiles –

The AH-1Z Viper represents the latest advancement in the renowned Bell Huey family. Based on the AH-1W SuperCobra platform and with the designation “Zulu Cobra” this helicopter symbolizes Nigeria’s commitment to modernizing its defence forces and safeguarding its national security interests.

Also read: Super Cobra AH-1W | The end of the era of the legendary helicopter for the US Marines – VIDEO