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World Aviation Defense & Security News - Kenya
 
 
Kenya received first batch of Bell UH-1H Huey II helicopters from US
 
The United States handed over a first six of eight Bell UH-1H Huey II utility helicopters to the Kenya Air Force, the US embassy in Kenya announced on Dec. 2, 2016. "The Huey II helicopters that we are delivering today represent the United States’ largest single security cooperation initiative ever undertaken in sub-Saharan Africa," the U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Robert F. Godec said during a ceremony at Laikipia Air Base.
     
Kenya received first batch of Bell UH 1H Huey II helicopters from US 640 001One of the six Bell UH-1H delivered to Kenya Air Force on Dec. 2, 2016
(Credit: US Embassy in Kenya)
     
"It is an initiative that was Kenyan-led, originating in the Kenya National Military Strategy and the White Paper on military cooperation with the United States, signed by General Jeremiah Kianga in June 2010. (...) The Hueys will bolster the KDF’s capacity to combat al-Shabaab, an effort that will bring about a more stable and peaceful East Africa," ambassador Godec added.

"The extra two helicopters will be delivered by May 2017," said the country's Defence Cabinet Secretary Mrs Rachael Omamo who also hailed Omamo noted that the full donation of eight helicopters is worth US$109 mn.

Godec further noted that the US government will also provide accompanying spare parts and training on the use of the helicopter to Kenya Defence Forces personnel.

The Kenya Air Force currently operates a array of helicopters including Russian-made Mil Mi-17, French SA 330 Puma, Chinese Harbin Z-9 and MD 500 light utility helicopters.

     
Kenya received first batch of Bell UH 1H Huey II helicopters from US 640 002One of the six Bell UH-1H delivered to Kenya Air Force on Dec. 2, 2016
(Credit: US Embassy in Kenya)