By Government Press Office | BELIZE
LADYVILLE, Belize – The government of the United States donated a Cessna Caravan 208 aircraft to the ministry of national defence and border security at a handover ceremony on March 1, at the Williamson Hanger Complex in Ladyville.
The aircraft was donated by US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) through the United States foreign military financing program.
This US$7.84M donation will modernize the interdiction capabilities of the Belize Defense Force Airwing, making Belize better equipped to assist with reconnaissance, search and rescue, and military operations throughout the country. The donation package also includes training, spare parts, and on-site maintenance support.
Speaking at the donation ceremony, US ambassador Michelle Kwan, underscored:
“This latest donation from the American people is a powerful investment in the future of the Belize Defence Force and the Belize interagency. We are proud to partner with Belize in our shared pursuit of secure borders and regional stability.”
Minister of national defence and border security Florencio Marin, noted:
“The aircraft will improve our readiness and effectiveness in combatting current and future threats to our nation’s security.”
The US foreign military financing program is a department of defense program designed to improve the defense capabilities of partner nations to help contribute toward common security goals in the region.
Last year, the United States provided US$1.6M in security assistance to Belize through the program. This includes vehicles, training, and communication systems.
