–Gradates Airforce cadets
BISHOFTU- In the face of a dynamic security environment, the Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) has made vigilant preparedness and built its competence to cope up with the new era of warfare, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) said.
Premier Abiy, who is also the
Commander-in-Chief of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (END) made the above remark at the closing ceremony of the 88th Founding Anniversary of the ETAF. The ceremony was graced by Black Lion Air Show in collaboration with the UAE.
The PM said in the occasion that the reform the ETAF has gone through for the past three years coupled with its committed and disciplined leadership and personnel have made it ready to the dynamic military order.
“We have employed artificial intelligence and other ultramodern military technologies that will determine tomorrow’s warfare owing to the responsibility that we shoulder to pass peaceful and prosperous Ethiopia to the next generation.”
He added, “Our aim to build a well-trained, ethical and able defense force is to inform anyone to refrain from attacking Ethiopia and display our preparedness to repel aggression that may come from enemy quarters.”
The PM also lauded the reforms undertaken within the ETAF. “The efforts we have made to build infrastructure and equip the Air Force with modern equipment, to be self-sufficient in technology and to produce qualified and professional human capital is testament to the effectiveness of our reforms.”
Abiy further stated that cooperation and solidarity are vital instruments to defend and ensure Ethiopia’s lasting peace and stability. In this regard, the PM lauded the contributions of many countries including Russia, U.S., Sweden, France, UAE and Germany for the entire development of the ETAF since its establishment. “Ethiopia is desirous of consolidating cooperation with these countries and seeking other partners in the air defense industry.”
According to him, the Black Lion Air Show is also a testimony to fruits of collaborative efforts. “A military air show jointly presented by the air forces of Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates on the occasion showed the level we can reach if we work together.”
In his congratulatory remark, the Commander-in-Chief urged the graduated Airforce pilots, technicians and instructors to discharge their responsibilities and meeting obligations thereby contributing for the peace of the country.
At the sidelines of the airshow, the Premier inaugurated the ETAF UAV 5th Airbase Hangar.
BY ASHENAFI ANIMUT
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 17 DECEMBER 2023
