. Chama
By JAJAH COULIBALY –
THE Zambia Air Force (ZAF) has commended President Edgar Lungu’s decision to approve the Defence Force modernisation plan.
Zambia Air Force Commander Eric Chimese said modernising the defence force, especially regarding relevant equipment, was long overdue.
“We acknowledge Government’s efforts so far towards re-equipping the Zambia Air Force with basic trainer aircraft, advanced fighter trainers, medium-lift helicopters, aircraft stimulator, surveillance equipment and more,” Lieutenant-General Chimese said.
He was speaking during the Zambia Air Force annual ball held at Lusaka’s Chamba Valley ZAF base on Friday evening.
Defence Minister Davies Chama, who graced the occasion, said the Government was committed to supporting the Zambia Air Force in carrying out its role of safeguarding the Zambian airspace.
Mr Chama said the Government was partnering with other technologically advanced countries to secure a wide range of equipment and air assets for the ZAF such as troop carriers, aerodrome fire-fighting trucks, crew shift buses, mobile workshops, VIP and military transport helicopters.
He further urged the Air Force Command to ensure personnel were empowered with life-long survival skills to facilitate for a smooth transition back into the civil society after they separated from the air force.
