Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has reassured the public that the government will not be acquiring old helicopters, addressing concerns about the quality of the incoming aircraft.
Speaking on Citizen TV, Duale clarified that the 16 helicopters from the US are indeed new.
However, Duale acknowledged the high number of helicopter crashes in the past two years and stated that the air commander has been tasked with evaluating all air assets. This evaluation will inform decisions regarding further purchases, servicing, and pilot training.
“We will not pick 50-year-old helicopters; before acquiring helicopters, our technical team conducts assessments,” Duale emphasized. He reiterated that the ministry has prioritized evaluating air assets for planning purposes, including servicing and pilot training.
Duale highlighted that Kenya will receive 16 new helicopters from the US to enhance air assets and safeguard airspace. These helicopters will support various operations, including troop transport and engagements against al-Shabaab in Somalia. Additionally, Kenya will acquire 150 M1117 Armored Security Vehicles from the US.
These acquisitions are part of the agreements reached during President William Ruto’s State visit to Washington, following which President Joe Biden’s administration committed to providing support to Kenya. The delivery of the 16 US-manufactured helicopters is scheduled between 2024 and 2025, aimed at strengthening Kenya’s capacity for regional peacekeeping and security efforts.
