Nigeria has purchased 12 Super Tucano A-29 planes and weapons worth $593 million for the fight against Boko Haram insurgency group and other extremist groups, such as the Islamic State West Africa splinter group.
The sale was originally initiated during former President Barack Obama’s tenure but was delayed after incidents including the Nigerian Air Force’s bombing of a refugee camp in January that killed 90 to 170 civilians.
Super Tucano costs more than $10 million each and the price can go much higher depending on the configuration. It is powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT 6 engine.
President Donald Trump has said he plans to go ahead with the foreign defense sales delayed under Obama by human rights concerns.
The contract will require U.S. Government or private contractors to provide training and support and will include instruction on rules of engagement and human rights to help prevent civilian casualties.
