Windhoek: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has announced that Namibia is now better equipped in terms of military requirements following the acquisition of two Y-9E aircraft for the Namibian Air Force (NADF) from China in late 2024. During an inspection of the transport planes at Hosea Kutako International Airport, Nandi-Ndaitwah described the new additions as valuable assets for the country.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Air Vice Marshal Teofilus Shaende, alongside NDF Chief Air Marshal Martin Kambulu Pinehas, highlighted the strategic importance of the aircraft, considering Namibia’s vast geographical expanse and the necessity for air mobility. The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs received an increased allocation of N.dollars 7.5 billion for the 2025/26 financial year, marking an increase from the previous year’s budget of N.dollars 6.9 billion.
Shaende, without disclosing the value of the aircraft, explained that procurement of military items involves complexities due to maintenance requireme
nts and the need for spares. He stressed that aviation requires meticulous budgeting since any mid-air problems could risk lives. The aircraft, handed over by former President Nangolo Mbumba at a ceremony in Grootfontein in December, are capable of covering long distances quickly, with a speed of 520 to 600 kilometers per hour with cargo.
The aircraft’s multifunctionality allows for military and state use, including humanitarian crisis responses. They have already been used to transport the remains of Founding President Sam Nujoma during memorial services. Each aircraft can carry 200 passengers and three combat vehicles. The aircraft, named NAF-1962 and NAF-1990, have an estimated lifespan of 30 years, reflecting the birth year of the NDF Chief Air Marshal and Namibia’s independence year.
Shaende noted the procurement from China underscores strong bilateral trust between the nations. Flight navigator Stan Mafwila mentioned Namibia’s distinction as the first African country to possess this aircraft type, wit
h eight Namibian Air Force pilots receiving specialized training in China to operate the advanced systems of the Y-9E. He emphasized the benefits of the acquisition, noting the larger capacity compared to previous aircraft and the training assistance from China.