- The President said his recent trips to America and South Korea are part of the plans to modernise KDF.
- Ruto said that the government will continue invest in modern technology to support the KDF.
Image: PCS
President William Ruto has affirmed the commitment by his government to modernise the Kenya Air Force.
KAF is a pivotal institution in Kenya's Defence Forces (KDF) structure playing a crucial role in safeguarding Kenya’s airspace and territorial integrity.
Speaking when the presided over the 60th Anniversary of the Kenya Air Force, Ruto said the country stands at a threshold of many challenges, but also new opportunities.
“The threats we face are ever evolving, but so too are our capabilities. The government of Kenya is committed to ensuring the modernization of our Air force by ensuring that you have the tools, training and resources needed to meet any challenges,’’ Ruto said.
The president who is also the Commander-in-chief of the Kenya Defence Forces said he was proud that his recent trips to the US and South Korea sealed deals to enhance the KDF capabilities.
“I am particularly proud that when I was in the US, a week ago, among the discussions we had were military capabilities to enhance our capacity of the Kenya Air Force as well as the entire Kenya Defense Forces for mission readiness,’’ he said at the Moi Airbase in Eastleigh, Nairobi.
“I am also happy that as I came back yesterday, South Korea also has committed to improve some of the capabilities and I am hopeful some of their equipment will support the capability of the Kenya Defense Forces.’’
At the same time, Ruto said that the government will continue to invest in modern technology to support the KDF operations for the safety of Kenyans and the borders.
“We will invest in cutting-edge technology, enhance your skills and support your missions to keep our nation safe and our future secure,’’ Ruto said.
Ruto's sentiments come days after his trip to the US where he signed major security deals.
Kenya will receive 16 US-manufactured helicopters to boost the country’s security operations and peacekeeping missions.
White House said the 16 helicopters include eight Hueys to bolster regional peace and security and eight MD-500s to enhance Kenya's peacekeeping mission participation.
The aircraft are expected to arrive in Nairobi between late 2024 and 2025, the White House said.
Kenya will also receive approximately 150 M1117 Armored Security Vehicles from the U.S. Excess Defense Article stocks which are projected to arrive in Kenya in September 2024.
In a bid to fortify collaboration on counterterrorism, the two nations pledged to deepen their information-sharing efforts.