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Kenya’s security is set to receive a major shot in the arm with the upcoming delivery of 16 US-manufactured helicopters. The White House announced the news of the US-Kenya defense cooperation deal, which will see eight Huey helicopters bolster Kenya’s regional security capabilities, while eight MD-500s will specifically support the country’s peacekeeping missions.
This critical delivery arrives between late 2024 and summer 2025, and comes amidst growing concerns about the safety of the Kenyan Air Force fleet following a series of tragic crashes, including the recent loss of Chief of Defense Forces General Francis Ogolla. The incident has intensified calls for modernization, with many experts pointing to the aging aircraft as a contributing factor.
The new helicopters represent a broader US strategic investment in Kenya’s defense sector, reflecting a long-standing commitment as the two nations celebrate 60 years of partnership. Furthermore, Kenya and the US are poised to sign a Memorandum of Understanding that will see the expansion of the Manda Bay Airfield on the Kenyan coast. This expansion, including a new 10,000-foot runway, will provide crucial infrastructure for enhanced operations against the militant group al-Shabaab.
This move signifies a turning point for Kenyan defense capabilities. The new helicopters, coupled with the planned airfield expansion, position Kenya to play a more robust role in safeguarding regional security.
The new helicopters represent a broader US strategic investment in Kenya’s defense sector. Furthermore, Kenya and the US are poised to sign a Memorandum of Understanding that will see the expansion of the Manda Bay Airfield on the Kenyan coast. This expansion, including a new 10,000-foot runway, will provide crucial infrastructure for enhanced operations against the militant group al-Shabaab.
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