Defence questioned over alleged hurried transfer of helicopters
Written by Staff Reporter on November 12, 2026
The transfer of three helicopters to the Namibian Air Force from the Government Air Transport Services (GATS) has been questioned in parliament.
Independent Patriots for Change shadow defence minister, Aloisius Kangulu, says the aircraft risk mechanical deterioration.
Two of the helicopters he alleges have been grounded for six months without routine maintenance or performing flight operations.
He claims the helicopters will remain parked in the hangers for prolonged period because of a lack of properly qualified pilots and technicians certified to maintain this specific helicopter models.
Kangulu raised the matter on Tuesday in the National Assembly, where he sought answers from the minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Frans Kapofi.
Kangulu has also raised concerns that the helicopters could be left uninsured following their transfer from GATS, exposing taxpayers to massive financial losses in the event of damage or total write-off.
He questions the urgency of transferring the aircraft without first putting in place a proper transition plan, including keeping them under GATS management while Air Force personnel undergo specialised training.
“Why did the ministry transfer the helicopters from GATS before implementing a comprehensive transition plan?” he asks.
He wants Kapofi to explain the decision, the aircraft’s prolonged inactivity and what financial safeguards have been put in place to protect the multimillion-dollar assets.
Kapofi is expected to respond next Thursday.
