KENYA AIR FORCE COMMISSIONS THE C-27J SPARTAN
The Kenya Air Force (KAF) has today 14 February 2020, commissioned the newly acquired C-27J Spartan aircraft. This aircraft had been received on 30 January 2020 by H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander in Chief of the Defence Forces, in a ceremony held at Embakasi Garrison.
Presiding over the commissioning ceremony at Embakasi Garrison, Commander KAF Major General Francis Ogolla said the new acquisition will enhance KAF operations.
“After a rigorous process that has taken almost four years, Kenya Air Force is proud to join other Air Forces (US, Australia, Italy, Chad, Zambia, Morocco among others) that fly the plane,” said Major General Ogolla.
He said a team of pilots, air loadmasters and cabin crew have already received specialized training to ensure efficiency in operating the aircraft.
The Commander KAF thanked the Government of Kenya for funding the project, Defence Headquarters for the support in implementing the program requirements as well as LEONARDO SpA Company for the timely delivery and ensuring the aircraft was manufactured as per user’s specifications.
The Spartan C-27J replaces the Buffalo aircraft which was retired in 2014 after being in operation since 1976. It comes with the capability of airlifting heavy equipment used by the army, helicopters and maritime equipment in support of the Kenya Army and Kenya Navy.
Present at the ceremony were Base Commander Moi Air Base Brigadier Peter Githinji, Vice President LEONARDO SpA Military Airlifters Programme Mr. Luca Napolitano, KAF Senior Officers, Officers and Service Members
