Effective air operations depend on robust command and control, timely decision-making and the seamless integration of personnel, technology and operational capabilities. Command Post Exercises (CPX) provide a critical platform for testing these systems in simulated environments, enabling commanders and staff to identify gaps, refine procedures and strengthen preparedness before real-world operations.
The Kenya Air Force (KAF) continues to sharpen these capabilities through training that challenges personnel to plan, coordinate and execute air operations within complex and dynamic operational scenarios. On 18 August 2026, Commander KAF, Major General Bernard Waliaula, visited Laikipia Air Base to assess a Joint Air Operations CPX aimed at strengthening command and control and enhancing operational readiness.
The exercise was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of Command Post structures and functions while providing an opportunity to practise operational planning, coordination and decision-making across various functional cells. It also demonstrated how the different components of a Joint Air Operations Centre integrate their roles to support the effective planning and execution of air operations.
During the visit, Major General Waliaula received an operational brief from Base Commander Laikipia Air Base, Brigadier Hillary Kipkurui, who served as the Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC) for the exercise. Alongside the Chief of Staff and other key staff officers, Brigadier Kipkurui outlined the operational plan, exercise objectives and the different phases of the simulated operation.
The Commander subsequently toured the various Command Post cells, where staff officers explained their roles, responsibilities and contribution to the overall mission. The interaction provided an opportunity to assess command and control arrangements, information flow and the integration of different functional areas required to support coordinated air operations.
Addressing the officers, Major General Waliaula commended the Base Commander for initiating the exercise and emphasised the importance of continuously adapting operational planning to emerging technologies and evolving mission requirements.
“Command Post Exercises must challenge us to think critically, expose our gaps and enable us to harness technology and improve the effectiveness of air operations,” he said.
He further underscored the value of exercises that place commanders and staff in demanding scenarios requiring timely analysis, sound judgement and coordinated responses. Such training enables personnel to test operational concepts, strengthen teamwork and develop the agility required to respond effectively to rapidly changing situations.
By exercising command structures in realistic simulated environments, KAF is strengthening the ability of its personnel to anticipate challenges, coordinate resources and make informed decisions under pressure. Lessons identified during such exercises also provide an important basis for refining procedures and enhancing the effectiveness of future operations.
The Joint Air Operations CPX reinforces KAF’s focus on developing agile commanders, resilient command and control systems and technologically enabled operational processes. These capabilities contribute to the broader Kenya Defence Forces’ objective of strengthening joint operational readiness and ensuring forces remain prepared to respond decisively and effectively across diverse operational environments.
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