US GIFTS BOTSWANA ANOTHER C-130 HERCULES MILITARY TRANSPORT AIRCRAFT
Botswana has received another C-130H Hercules military transport aircraft from the United States, further strengthening the Botswana Defence Force’s strategic airlift and logistical capabilities.
The aircraft was transferred through the United States Excess Defence Articles (EDA) programme, reflecting deepening defence and diplomatic ties between the two countries.D
This marks Botswana’s second C-130H received from the United States in just over a year, following the delivery of the first aircraft in May 2024. Each aircraft is estimated to be worth between US$12 million and US$30 million.
The C-130 Hercules has served as the backbone of Botswana Defence Force air transport operations since 1997, supporting troop deployments, humanitarian missions, disaster relief efforts and regional peacekeeping operations across Africa.
The latest addition is expected to significantly enhance Botswana’s ability to respond rapidly to emergencies and expand its operational reach both domestically and across the region.