As emerging technologies reshape modern maritime operations, the Kenya Navy continues to strengthen its surveillance capabilities, operational readiness and maritime domain awareness through specialised training and the integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) systems.
On 23 October 2026, the Kenya Navy marked a significant milestone in its technological advancement with the graduation of Tactical Drone Operators at the Kenya Naval Training College (KNTC), Kenya Navy Base Mtongwe.
The ceremony was presided over by Colonel Antony Gachagua of Headquarters Kenya Navy, marking the successful completion of specialised training aimed at equipping personnel with the technical proficiency, operational judgement and maintenance skills required to employ UAV systems effectively in naval operations.
Supported by the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark under the Kenya–Denmark Framework of Cooperation, the course focused on UAV flight operations, systems maintenance, aerial surveillance and the provision of timely operational intelligence to support command decision-making.
Addressing the graduates, Colonel Gachagua underscored the critical importance of discipline, precision and accountability in operating advanced aerial systems, cautioning that even minor lapses could compromise operational safety and mission effectiveness.
“In the air, small lapses lead to costly consequences. The discipline that kept this course incident-free must be carried to your units, where there will be no instructors standing behind you,” he emphasised.
He challenged the graduates to uphold rigorous safety standards, sound judgement and professionalism as they transition from supervised training to operational deployments.
Danish Liaison Officer, Commander Senior Grade Thomas Olsen, commended the development of specialised UAV expertise within the Kenya Navy, noting that the technology would strengthen surveillance of naval installations and Kenya’s coastline while enhancing early threat detection and informed operational responses.
The graduation further underscores the strategic value of Kenya–Denmark defence cooperation in advancing technology transfer, specialised skills development and maritime security capabilities.
By integrating advanced aerial surveillance with skilled personnel and effective command structures, the Kenya Navy continues to build a technologically capable, intelligence-driven and mission-ready force committed to safeguarding Kenya’s maritime interests, territorial waters and national security.
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