Kenya Army receives newly refurbished Z9 choppers from Chinese firm
The Z9 helicopter is a utility military aircraft primarily designed for troop transport.
The Kenya Army has received a fleet of its newly refurbished Z9 helicopters in efforts to boost its capabilities.
The helicopters were refurbished in Nairobi with support from the China Aviation Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC) which brought the needed hardware and did the work ahead of their commissioning at the Embakasi Garrison.
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This follows a partnership between the Kenya Defence Forces and CATIC which the Department of Defence said will enhance Kenya's military capabilities.
The helicopters were commissioned on Tuesday in a ceremony presided over by Kenya Army Commander, Lieutenant General David Tarus.
Tarus commended the support by CATIC, terming it a crucial step forward for Kenya Army Aviation in defending the nation and ensuring regional security.
The partnership encompasses various aspects, including military equipment procurement, technology transfer, joint training, and strategic cooperation, all contributing to Kenya's operational readiness.
"Our partnership fosters a culture of collaboration and trust. Together, we will continue to innovate, improve, and push the boundaries of military aviation. Success in the airspace relies not only on advanced technology but also on the strength of the relationships between nations," he said.
CATIC Vice President Li Houding expressed optimism about the partnership, stating that the collaboration would leverage aviation technology expertise to accelerate progress.
"Through joint research and development and the sharing of best practices in aircraft maintenance, we aim to enhance the capabilities of Kenya Army Aviation," he said.
The event was also attended by the General Officer Commanding Eastern Command Major General Luka Kutto, Embakasi Garrison Commander Brigadier Jackson Lesaiyo, DEFTEC Principal Brigadier Ali Dahir, Kenya Army Corps of Aviation Commander Colonel Antony Maina, a delegation from CATIC, senior officers, officers, and service members.
The Z9 helicopter, a utility military aircraft primarily designed for troop transport, represents an advanced tool in the Kenya Army's aviation arsenal.
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