KABUL (SW) – The US on Thursday delivered four new A-29 Super Tucano attack aircraft to the Afghan Air Force as a sign of continued support for the war-ravaged country.
Speaking on the occasion, US army CDR Lt. Gen. Deedrick said the Allies remain steadfast in commitment to assist Afghanistan, with training, with funding as they provide security for the Afghan people. “With the addition of these four aircraft, we have now transferred eighteen A-29s since 2016 & we will continue to transfer an additional six in Feb," he said.
Defense Minister Assadullah Khalid said in his remarks that it demonstrates resolute support from the US for Afghanistan. He added the support would continue until terrorism is defeated in Afghanistan and the region.
Referring to the peace talks, Khalid said there has been significant surge in violence with the launch of intra-Afghan negotiations with the Taliban seeking position of strength at the table. He added the Afghan forces remain on the defensive posture. He warned enemies of Afghanistan should stop dreaming about dissolving the Afghan forces on the directives of ‘Punjab’ (Pakistan).
The transfer of 150 Black Hawk helicopters, 150 MD 530 helicopters, six A-29 fixed-wing warplanes and five AC-208 warplanes is part of the US commitment to Afghanistan by 2021.
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