NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has launched its first-ever joint helicopter pilot training programme, marking a major shift in military aviation training and joint operations.
The programme was officially opened on January 26, 2026, at the Helicopter Command, Moi Air Base, by the Commander Kenya Air Force, Major General Bernard Waliaula, during the inauguration of the Aviation Centre of Excellence (ACE) 07 Pioneer Rotary Wing Ab Initio Helicopter Course.
The course represents a historic milestone for the KDF, bringing together rotary-wing pilot training previously conducted separately by the Kenya Army and the Kenya Air Force.
In some cases, trainee pilots were sent abroad for instruction, a practice that attracted high costs and logistical constraints.
The establishment of the joint Ab Initio Helicopter Training Programme signals growing confidence by the KDF in its internal training capacity. It reflects an institutional push towards jointness, sustainability, and cost efficiency.
Addressing student pilots undertaking training on the Agusta Bell 206 helicopter, Major General Waliaula underscored the importance of discipline and professionalism.
“Your performance, discipline, and professionalism will define the enhanced capability of the Kenya Defence Forces and set the standard for future courses,” Waliaula said.
He noted that conducting rotary wing training locally would significantly reduce expenditure on overseas training, resulting in substantial savings of public funds. The move also strengthens national self-reliance in defence capability development.
The Commander challenged trainees to uphold the Aviation Centre of Excellence’s vision of becoming the leading provider of professional flying training in Kenya and the wider region. He commended the ACE fraternity for maintaining high standards of safety, discipline, and mentorship.
Speaking on behalf of the Commandant of the Kenya Army Corps of Aviation (KACA), Lieutenant Colonel David Nzuve, the Commanding Officer KACA, described the programme as a proud moment for the Kenya Army.
He noted that it was the first Kenya Army-specific course to be conducted at the facility.
Nzuve assured the Commander that officers selected for the course possess the character, resilience, and professional discipline required to succeed in demanding aviation training.
The Commandant of the Aviation Centre of Excellence, Colonel Douglas Muthuri, assured the Kenya Air Force Commander that the training environment, aircraft, and instructional faculty were fully prepared to deliver the course to the highest professional standards.
The ceremony was attended by Brigadier Herbert Wafula, Base Commander, Moi Air Base; the Deputy Base Commander; Principal Staff Officers from Kenya Air Force Headquarters; Commanding Officers; senior officers; instructors; as well as helicopter engineers and technicians.
The initiative aligns with the broader constitutional mandate under Article 241 of the Constitution, which requires the Kenya Defence Forces to maintain high standards of professionalism, training, and operational readiness in defence of national sovereignty and security.
