Namibia boosts military, humanitarian capabilities with Chinese-made transport aircraft

WINDHOEK, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Namibia's acquisition of two Chinese-made Shaanxi Y-9E transport aircraft marks a significant boost to the operational capacity of the Namibian Air Force, enhancing both military readiness and humanitarian response capabilities, the Ministry of Defense and Veterans Affairs said in a statement Thursday.

These aircraft, acquired from China in November 2024, were formally inspected by Namibian President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Force Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Wednesday at Hosea Kutako International Airport outside Windhoek, the country's capital.

Air Force Commander Teofilus Shaende highlighted the Y-9E's impressive speed and cargo capability.

"These aircraft will play a vital role in transporting troops and equipment, as well as in missions like drought relief and flood rescues," he said.

According to the ministry, Namibia is the first country outside China to receive this model, an achievement that strengthens both defense and diplomatic ties with China. Enditem