As a way of boosting Kenya’s capacity in waging war against terrorism, the country’s armed forces has signed a deal worth Sh9.87 billion with Turkish armoured vehicles manufacturer Katmerciler.
The deal which is to get 118 new armoured military vehicles for the country, is the largest single order for such vehicles in several years.
Turkish firm Katmerciler made the announcement in a regulatory filing, filed with the Turkish stock exchange, the Borsa Istanbul.
The vehicles, whose deliveries are planned for next year with the full order to be completed in 2023, will be deployed for counter-terror operations against the Somalia-based Al-Shabaab militant group, the Kenya Defence Forces said earlier.
The vehicles, which can carry up to nine personnel, are equipped with special elements to protect troops from a landmine or improvised explosive devices.
The Turkish manufacturer said the new vehicles can be used for combat, command and control, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defence, weapon carrier, ambulance, border security, and reconnaissance.
According to Katmerciler official, “The Hizirs will provide the Kenyan troops protective mobility wherever they are deployed.”
Katmerciler defeated South African and North American rivals for the lucrative contract.
Nairobi has recently been keen to strengthen its security and trade ties with Istanbul in the face of growing terrorism threats.
Omotayo Araoye
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