President Nangolo Mbumba has commissioned two newly acquired Namibia Defence Force (NDF) aircraft to add to the Air Force fleet at Grootfontein in the Otjozondjupa Region.
The aircraft flew from China, where they were manufactured, and were purchased on the 11th of November, making a stopover in seven countries before arriving in Namibia on the 17th of November.
The aircraft each have a seating capacity of 96, two parachuting routes, are mounted with medical aid units, and can carry about three light vehicles.
"The acquisition of these medium transport aircraft will go a long way in improving and enhancing the Namibian Defence Force's operational capacity and readiness to respond at short notice to any situation that might require the involvement of our soldiers, both during peacetime and wartime emergencies," said President Mbumba.
Mbumba commended the NDF leadership for continuously training its members and inclusive recruitment.
Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende said the aircraft will boost the force's capabilities and operations.
"With this aircraft in our arsenal, it will greatly enhance the Air Force's abilities to take on various military airlift and air transportation operations and subsequently to carry out state missions for nonmilitary purposes, especially considering that the Republic of Namibia is geographically large and characterized by different types of terrain; these aircraft are crucial to reach all corners of the country. For example, with devastating yearly droughts causing food shortages in communities, the Air Force will be able to airlift and deliver drought relief items and food for humanitarian relief aid.
Vice President of China National Aero-Technology, Lyu Li, said, "This accomplishment stands as a testament to the exceptional reliability and robust performance of the aircraft. Moving forward, CATIC remains resolutely committed to honoring its cooperative obligations by delivering comprehensive after-sales services. We will spare no effort to ensure the efficient operation and sustained reliability of aircraft throughout their lifecycle, thereby enabling the Namibia Air Force to utilize them with absolute assurance and satisfaction."
The aircraft have tail numbers. NAF 1990 represents the year in which Namibia gained independence, while NAF 1962 represents the year in which the incumbent Chief Defence Force Air Marshal Martin Kambulu Pinehas was born. This is in honor of his contribution to the growth of the Air Force.