Niël Terblanché
The Namibian Air Force continued its tradition of hosting the beginning-of-the-year parade, creating a space for members to come together to reflect on past experiences and embrace the prospects of the upcoming year.
Air Vice Marshal Theofilus Shaende, the Commander of the Namibian Air Force extended a warm welcome to members returning from the festive season and wished them a prosperous year ahead.
The ceremony took place at the end of last week at the Namibian Air Force’s main base in Karibib.
During his address to the parade, the Air Force Commander outlined the roadmap for activities, incorporating directives from the Chief of the Defence Force.
He emphasised the importance of field exercise training for all members which he said was needed for diligent preparation in light of operational requirements.
“While we have met expectations in certain areas, there is room for improvement, particularly in operation and training, human resources development, logistics, and information technology and communication,” he said.
The Namibian Air Force is an integral part of the Namibian Defence Force. It was officially commissioned on 13 March 2005, following Namibia’s independence from South Africa in 1990.
The establishment of the Air Defence Wing of the Namibian Defence Force on 23 July 1994 marked the initial steps towards forming a fully-fledged Air Force.
Over the years, the Namibian Air Force has grown in terms of personnel and equipment, including trainer and fighter aircraft like the Hongdu JL-8 and Chengdu F-7 obtained from China.
The Air Force has been involved in international deployments, such as in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the Second Congo War and in Zimbabwe for flood relief efforts and it continues to play a vital role in national and international operations.
In addition, the commander encouraged members to preserve facilities, maintain infrastructures and equipment with pride and uphold the highest standards of conduct, the stance he said would keep the force ready for combat.
He added that the focus on field exercises, operational improvement, and maintenance of facilities and equipment reflects the force’s dedication to readiness and efficiency, building on its foundational history.
“Let us work together towards common objectives, anticipate success and approach the year with a fulfilling mindset,” he concluded.
