The United States has announced plans to transfer military equipment to Kenya. The decision comes following a historic visit by Kenyan President William Ruto to the United States, where discussions covered various aspects of cooperation, including peace and security.
Helicopters for Enhanced Capability
Kenya is set to receive eight UH-1 “Huey” helicopters and eight MD500 helicopters. These aircraft are scheduled to arrive between late 2024 and mid-2025. The Hueys and MD500s will enhance Kenya’s ability to provide regional peacekeeping support and participate in security operations.
Armored Vehicles for Ground Operations
In addition to helicopters, Kenya has selected approximately 150 M1117 4×4 Armored Security Vehicles from US Excess Defense Article stocks. These vehicles are projected to arrive in Kenya by September 2024. The armored vehicles will strengthen Kenya’s landward capabilities and contribute to regional stability.
Infrastructure Upgrades
The White House has also announced plans to upgrade Manda Bay airfield in northern Kenya. Currently lacking adequate infrastructure, the airfield will undergo improvements, including the construction of a 10,000-foot runway. This upgrade will enhance logistical support and operational readiness.
Counter-Terrorism Cooperation
Kenya is actively participating in Operation “Gallant Phoenix,” a US-led multinational initiative based in Jordan. The operation aims to share information on terrorist threats and strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation between participating countries.
Major Non-NATO Ally Designation
President Joe Biden has informed Congress of his intention to designate Kenya as a Major Non-NATO Ally. This prestigious designation recognizes Kenya’s close and strategic working relationship with the US military and defense civilians. It marks the first time a sub-Saharan African nation has received this status.
Ongoing Support
The United States has been providing substantial support to Kenya’s civilian security and defense sectors. Since 2020, over $230 million in funding has been allocated, including assistance from the Massachusetts National Guard under the State Partnership Program. Ongoing advisory and training efforts continue to benefit Kenyan pilots, logistics personnel, and the Kenya Defense Forces’ Disaster Response Battalion.
Internal Struggles and Regional Threats
Kenya faces challenges in securing its northern regions from Harakat al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen militants operating from neighboring Somalia. Frequent attacks on security forces and civilians along the border highlight the importance of regional cooperation in countering terrorism.
Diplomatic Relations
Since gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1963, Kenya has maintained diplomatic relations with the United States. Despite occasional difficulties, including corruption concerns and legal issues, bilateral ties have evolved positively. President Barack Obama’s visit in 2015 paved the way for improved cooperation.
South Korea’s Contribution
In addition to the US-provided MD500s and UH-1s, Kenya is due to receive 16 ex-Republic of Korea Army MD500MD Defender helicopters. South Korea pledged these helicopters during the UN peacekeeping forum in Seoul in 2021.
Korean MD500s: A Strategic Addition
In December 2023, the first six of the 16 donated MD500 helicopters were shipped from the Korean Army Logistics Command’s general maintenance depot in Jinhae to the United States for repairs and maintenance. These helicopters are destined for Kenya under the auspices of the US State Department.
Korean Air’s aerospace division has a rich history with the MD500. Between 1976 and 1984, they built approximately 280 MD500s under license. However, these helicopters are now being phased out of Korean service, making way for the indigenous LUH-1 Surion.
Kenya’s military is no stranger to the MD500. The country already operates 40 MD500s, which were delivered by the United States between 1980 and 1985. Additionally, Kenya received 2,100 TOW anti-tank missiles as part of this package. Recently, six new MD530Fs were delivered from the US in December 2019. These helicopters play a crucial role in supporting operations related to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
UH-1 Huey II: Strengthening Kenya’s Fleet
Kenya is also an operator of the UH-1 Huey II helicopters. In 2016/17, the country acquired eight Huey IIs from the United States. Notably, in September 2017, the US Department of Defense announced a foreign military sales contract worth $52.1 million with Bell Helicopter. This contract aimed to supply an initial batch of five Huey II helicopters along with spare parts to Kenya.
The ongoing cooperation between the United States and Kenya underscores the importance of regional security and stability. As Kenya continues to address internal and external threats, these helicopters and armored vehicles will play a vital role in safeguarding peace and enhancing security capabilities.
