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- Aug 23, 2016
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A file photof of Defence CS Raychelle Omamo and US Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec inside one the eight Bell Huey 11 helicopters given by the American government
The American government has delivered two additional helicopters to the Kenya Air Force to strengthen the military in the war against al Shabaab.
The final two of eight Bell Huey II helicopters were delivered to the Kenya Air Force on Wednesday.
Six similar choppers were delivered on December 2, 2016, and are being used to deploy rapid response units to and from the battle field in Somalia.
"They will bolster the KDF’s capacity to combat al Shabaab, an effort that will bring more stability and peace to East Africa," US ambassador Robert Godec said.
In a statement, Godec said the helicopters will reinforce the KDF’s air assault capability to deploy Kenyan rangers and other quick reaction forces.
"They will provide the KDF with the capacity to deliver much-needed supplies to the front line and help save the lives of troops with vital medical evacuations," he said.
Godec noted the helicopters have the exceptional capacity to operate in hot and high-elevation environments.
"... being rugged enough helps them endure extended operations with minimal maintenance," he said.
"We work to build our mutual security and peace throughout the region so that both of our countries are safer and more secure."
The Ambassador reported that the US has provided more than Sh11.5 billion ($115 million) in military equipment and assistance for Kenyan soldiers in the last year.
In May, the US government cleared the purchase of 12 new American made light attack helicopter gunships to boost Kenya’s military air capabilities.
Kenya Defence Forces siad the new MD530F attack helicopters will replace the ageing MD500 fleet.
Kenya’s MD500 helicopters constitute the core of the reconnaissance equipment supporting KDF ground forces especially in the ongoing fight against the militants linked to al Qaeda.
The US State Department said the purchase was worth about $253 million (Sh25 billion).
More on this: KDF acquires 12 American light attack helicopter gunships, other Weaponries
Al Shabaab is fighting to overthrow Somalia's Western-backed government and establish its own rule.
Kenyan troops form part of the African Union-mandated AMISOM peacekeeping force defending Somalia's central government against the terrorists.
