Patrick Chitumba in GWERU
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has called for the continuous modernisation of the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) through advanced training, technology transfer and skills development, stating that a highly skilled defence force is critical to safeguarding national security and achieving Vision 2030 targets.
The President, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), made the remarks yesterday while conferring flying wings on 10 newly qualified AFZ officers.
The cohort, comprising nine males and one female, completed an intensive training programme combining military instruction, academic studies and practical flying to qualify as combatant pilots.
Addressing the commissioning and wings presentation parade for Number 70 Pilot Training Course at Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru, President Mnangagwa said the changing nature of military operations, particularly the growing deployment of artificial intelligence, required the continuous upgrading of technological capabilities.
“It is my singular honour and privilege to officiate at this commissioning and wings parade for Number 70 pilot training course,” the President said.
“I commend our National Strategic School of Flying Training, which is Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base, for its renowned tradition of excellence and having this time churned out 10 officers whom I have duly conferred flying wings.”
The President revealed that the course commenced on 8 November 2021 with 12 flying officer cadets. One cadet was subsequently discharged, while another died alongside an instructor pilot in an air crash.
“We pay our condolences to them. On behalf of Government, and indeed on my own behalf, I once again express deepest heart-felt condolences to the families of the deceased instructor and student pilot. May their souls continue to rest in eternal peace,” he said.
To address technological developments and emerging trends in air operations, the flying training syllabus has been upgraded to a degree programme administered by the Zimbabwe National Defence University. Number 70 Pilot Training Course is the second cohort to complete the degree route.
During the academic phase, cadets undertook a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Aviation Sciences, Aircraft
Systems and Operations, covering modules such as navigation, air law, aerodynamics, radar technology and air traffic management.
“Armed with theoretical aspects of aviation, the officer cadets progressed to the practical phase where they were attached to Number 6 Squadron,” President Mnangagwa explained. “During this critical phase, the student pilots were expected to accumulate a total of 120 flying hours, covering aspects such as general handling, circuits, instrument flying, navigation, formation flying, and aerobatics.”
The President commended the AFZ for establishing an overhaul and maintenance facility at the Gweru base to foster technical expertise through technology transfer agreements with equipment suppliers.
Regionally, the AFZ continues to cooperate with other air forces under the umbrella of the SADC Standing Aviation Committee to enhance collective interoperability. The President announced that he looks forward to the AFZ hosting Exercise Blue Runde in 2027 and performing displays at the Africa Aerospace and Defence Exhibition in South Africa.
He implored the newly commissioned officers to uphold the highest standards of patriotism, discipline and precision, warning them against self-destructive behaviours such as drug and substance abuse.
The President was accompanied by Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, her deputy Levy Mayihlome, service chiefs and senior Government officials.
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