On Tuesday, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officially commissioned Z9 helicopters supplied by the China Aviation Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC) at the Kenya Army Corps of Aviation located in Embakasi Garrison.
The event was presided over by Lt Gen David Tarus, Commander of the Kenya Army.
The Harbin Z-9, a military utility helicopter with armed variants, is produced by Harbin Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation and is a licensed version of the French Eurocopter AS365 Dauphin.
Lt Gen Tarus remarked that this collaboration between the KDF and CATIC represents a significant advancement in bolstering Kenya’s military capabilities.
The partnership includes various elements such as the procurement of military equipment, technology transfer, joint training initiatives, and strategic cooperation, all of which enhance Kenya’s operational readiness.
He praised CATIC for their support, describing the partnership as a vital progression for the Kenya Army Aviation in its mission to defend the nation and maintain regional security.
Furthermore, he underscored that the introduction of this new equipment would empower soldiers to perform their responsibilities with greater efficiency.
“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,” stated Lt. Gen. Tarus.
Li Houding, the Vice President of CATIC, conveyed a positive outlook regarding the partnership, emphasizing that the collaboration would utilize aviation technology expertise to expedite advancements.
“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 Z9 helicopter, a military utility aircraft primarily intended for troop transport, serves as a sophisticated asset within the aviation capabilities of the Kenya Army.
This helicopter is part of a fleet of eight units acquired by the Department of Defence several years ago to enhance operational efficiency.
After being inactive for an extended period, the helicopters underwent refurbishment to restore them for service.
The most recent armed variant, the Z-9WA, was introduced in 2005 and is equipped with night attack capabilities, featuring an under-nose low-light television and an infrared observation and tracking system.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of General Officer Commanding Eastern Command Maj Gen Luka Kutto, Embakasi Garrison Commander Brig Jackson Lesaiyo, Principal DEFTEC Brig Ali Dahir, Commander Kenya Army Corps of Aviation Col Antony Maina, along with a delegation from CATIC.
