The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) on Wednesday announced that it had acquired newly refurbished Z9 choppers from the China Aviation Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC).
Kenya Army Commander Lieutenant General David Tarus, while presiding over the commissioning of the aircraft, noted that the collaboration between the Kenyan army and the Chinese state-owned aviation company marked a significant milestone in enhancing Kenya’s military capabilities.
According to Lieutenant Tarus, Kenya's partnership with CATIC encompassed various aspects, including military equipment procurement, technology transfer, joint training, and strategic cooperation.
Speaking to military officers in Nairobi, Tarus commended the support by the Chinese company, terming the partnership as a crucial step forward for Kenya Army Aviation in defending the nation.
He further emphasised that the new equipment would enable the Kenyan soldiers to execute their duties more effectively by ensuring regional security.
“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,” noted Lieutenant Tarus.
The Z9 helicopter is a utility military aircraft primarily designed for the transportation of troops and its commissioning represents an advancement in the country's military aviation capabilities.
Being a light tactical aircraft, the Z9 has the capability of transporting up to ten military officers at a time and it is designed with more composite materials to reinforce its military strength.
While addressing the officers, Li Houding, Vice President of CATIC, 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,” Li Houding affirmed.
Following its acquisition, Kenya joins the list of several other African countries that have invested in the Chinese-made military chopper. Among the countries that own a Z9 include Cameroon, Djibouti, Mali, Mauritania, Namibia and Zambia.
Kenya's decision to acquire the Z9 military chopper comes hardly four months after President William Ruto reached an agreement with the United States for the delivery of 8 Huey choppers. According to the agreement, Kenya would receive the aircraft between late 2024 and early 2025.
