The first domestically overhauled Mi-24 helicopter was commissioned by President Yoweri Museveni at the Nakasongola Air Base, marking a significant milestone for the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) in maintaining its own fleet.
Russian company Proheli International Services Limited was responsible for the overhaul, which included upgrades for day and night operations, as well as new dust filters. The company’s CEO Valerii Copeichin, hopes to make the MRO facility a one-stop center for helicopter repairs, manufacture electronic software for helicopters, and build a Ugandan-made helicopter using local manpower.
The aircraft is intended to be used for cattle rustling and anti-terrorism operations in the region. The new facility commissioned in January 2022 will improve turnaround times for helicopter repairs, generate revenue, create employment opportunities for locals, and provide industrial training for Air Force personnel.
Uganda has a dozen Mi-24/35 attack helicopters in service, as well as several other helicopters. In addition to helicopter maintenance, Uganda is also developing its military industrial base, with the production of armored vehicles in partnership with the United Arab Emirates’ Streit Group and the commissioning of locally manufactured infantry fighting vehicles.
