NAF A-29 SUPER TUCANO ENGAGES TERRORIST ELEMENTS AT RIJANA HILL, KADUNA STATE

The Air Component Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 1, has reinforced its Operational presence over Kaduna State following the sighting and engagement of suspected Terrorist elements at RIJANA HILL in Kachia Local Government Area on 9 October 2026. The Mission was executed by an A-29 Super Tucano aircraft after the Air Component Commander, Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1, directed an immediate response to Intelligence indicating the convergence of an undetermined number of Terrorist Elements at the Location.

The aircraft had earlier provided aerial escort and overwatch for the convoy conveying the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and the Air Component Commander from Kaduna to MARABAN RIDO. During this phase, the crew maintained Visual and Radio contact with the convoy and scanned the surrounding areas for potential threats, with none observed. The Mission subsequently transitioned to address an emerging threat at RIJANA HILL, where the aircrew sighted some suspected Terrorist Elements.

Upon sighting the aircraft, the Terrorist elements reportedly attempted to flee and seek cover. However, the crew engaged their identified positions with onboard weapons and subsequently conducted a further scan of the area. No additional threats were observed before the aircraft returned to base.

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The mission highlights the versatility of the Air Component Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 in conducting Convoy Protection, Aerial Surveillance and Rapid Response to emerging threats within a single operational sortie. It also demonstrates the value of timely Intelligence and effective Command-and-Control arrangements in enabling the Air Component to respond promptly to changing Operational demands.

The Air Component, Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1, will sustain its Operational tempo and continue to work in close coordination with Joint Forces to counter terrorist threats, protect personnel and communities, and contribute to the restoration of lasting peace and security across the Operational Theatre.