NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 19-The Kenya Air Force is testing its command and control systems against complex simulated scenarios as it seeks to strengthen its ability to coordinate and respond to rapidly evolving operational threats.

📻 Breaking It Down

The focus took centre stage on Tuesday, when Commander Kenya Air Force (KAF), Major General Bernard Waliaula, visited Laikipia Air Base to assess a Joint Air Operations Command Post Exercise (CPX) designed to test decision-making, coordination and operational readiness.

The exercise brought commanders and staff together in a simulated operational environment to test how effectively different command structures and functional cells can work together to plan and execute air operations.

KDF said effective air operations depend on “robust command and control, timely decision-making and the seamless integration of personnel, technology and operational capabilities.”

📌 What You Need to Know

The Command Post Exercise was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of command post structures and functions while allowing them to practise operational planning, coordination and decision-making under demanding scenarios.

It also tested how the different components of a Joint Air Operations Centre integrate their responsibilities to support the planning and execution of air missions.

During the visit, Waliaula received an operational briefing from Laikipia Air Base Commander Brigadier Hillary Kipkurui, who served as the Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC) for the exercise.

Kipkurui, alongside the Chief of Staff and other senior officers, briefed the KAF commander on the operational plan, objectives of the exercise and the various phases of the simulated operation.

Waliaula later toured the Command Post cells, where officers explained their respective roles and how information and decisions move across the different functional areas.

The exercise allowed the KAF leadership to assess the effectiveness of command and control arrangements, information flow and coordination between the various elements supporting joint air operations.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya