The Kenya Army Corps of Aviation has received eight MD-500 helicopters in a trilateral security partnership involving Kenya, the United States and the Republic of Korea.
The aircraft were donated by South Korea and refurbished in the United States before being handed over to the Kenya Army, in a move expected to strengthen the country’s aviation and counterterrorism capabilities.
In a social media post, US Ambassador to Kenya Susan Burns said the partnership demonstrated the three countries’ shared commitment to peace and security.
“Three countries, one shared commitment to peace and security,” Burns said, highlighting the cooperation between the three nations.
The ambassador noted that the helicopters would enhance Kenya’s capacity to respond to security threats while reinforcing its position as a regional security leader.
Burns further described the trilateral arrangement as an example of the importance of international security cooperation in promoting regional stability.
According to the ambassador, improved security would also help create favourable conditions for economic growth and prosperity.
“This trilateral partnership demonstrates the value of international security cooperation in advancing regional stability and creating the conditions for economic growth and prosperity,” she said.
The handover underscores growing defence cooperation between Kenya, the United States and South Korea, with the three countries seeking to strengthen security capabilities and support stability in the region.
“Together, we are investing in a safer, more secure, and more prosperous future,” Burns added.
