Among the weapons the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers flew with to their peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was the Special Operation Forces Combat Assault rifles (FN-SCAR).
The automatic rifles were initially designed for US special forces in 2004.
"Early 2004, United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) issued a solicitation for a family of Special Forces Combat Assault Rifles, the so-called SCAR, designed around two different calibres but featuring high commonality of parts and identical ergonomics," TR Equipment, a gun selling company states.
Features of the FN-SCAR Rifles
The powerful assault rifle fires both automatic and semi-automatic while at the same time maintaining high firing accuracy in either mode.
A grenade launcher can be mounted on the lower rail of the rifle for added firepower.
The assault rifle also features a foldable buttstock and adjustable length helping the KDF soldiers to adapt to any operation, and an adjustable cheekpiece.
The firearms are also light, enabling the soldiers to execute their duties, especially in times of war properly.
Types of FN-SCAR Rifles
There are also different types of FN-SCAR rifles used by KDF, including FN SCAR-L STD and FN SCAR-H STD rifles, chambered in 7.62mm and fitted with a standard 16” barrel.
Precision Rifle FN SCAR-H PR is used specially designed to fire at long and short ranges. However, the manufacturers have continued improving their features, introducing even assault rifles for civilians in the US.
A piece of FN-Scar assault rifle retails at around Ksh310,000, making Kenya among the countries with powerful weapons.
In DRC, most law enforcement officers use AK47 which are currently being phased out in the country.
To further prove Kenya's prowess, Defence Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, revealed that the previous administration invested in the intelligence system improving the country's weaponry and ability to defend itself.
"The huge investment the previous administration has made in the intelligence infrastructure is really helping," Duale stated on Wednesday, November 16
KDF's peacekeeping mission in the northern parts of DRC was approved by both the National Assembly and President William Ruto, who handed them a national flag.
"At the bare minimum, every society deserves the opportunity to experience peace and safety and every nation desires to guarantee its people the dividends of security and stability," Ruto stated.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also flew to the region to mediate between DRC and the M23 rebels.
To spearhead their operation, Uhuru, on Wednesday, November 16, engaged with both government leaders and the militia. He, however, pointed out that his role was hampered by the humanitarian crisis in Goma Town.
