The Nigerian air force has signed a memorandum of understanding with Florida-based contractor Comp Air Aviation to develop light utility aircraft.

Comp Air Aviation was selected from three U.S.-based aviation companies to develop the platform, referred to as the NAFSA Eagle aircraft. The agreement facilitates collaborative research and development efforts for the new plane.

The project is part of Nigeria's effort to modernize its armed forces, which are currently engaged in the fight against the Boko Haram terror group in the north and renewed militancy in the oil-producing Niger Delta region in the south.

According to the Nigerian air force's Chief of the Air Staff Air Mshl. Sadique Abubakar, the collaboration will help his country become more technologically independent and better equipped to face domestic threats.

After the signing, Comp Air Aviation CEO Ronald Lueck assured the project will provide the technological framework to improve the branch's self-reliance.

Light utility aircraft are general purpose planes or helicopters that can be fitted for various purposes, such as transport, search-and-rescue, or light attack roles.