Ethiopian Air Force engineers and technicians have successfully restored a historically significant DHC-5 Buffalo aircraft, once used by former President Mengistu Hailemariam, after it had been out of service for over thirty-seven years.
The commander of the Ethiopian Air Force, Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa, expressed his gratitude for this achievement, noting that the fully maintained and modernized aircraft, equipped with contemporary technologies, has been successfully returned to service after multiple trials. He highlighted that this accomplishment demonstrates the innovation and resourcefulness of the institution's young talent.
Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa also emphasized the broader efforts of the military to become a producer of defense equipment, alongside procurement, with the veteran Air Force playing a key role by developing and implementing various projects. He reiterated the Air Force's commitment, under the motto "A Great Air Force for a Great Nation," to protecting national airspace, preserving its history, and enhancing its capabilities as a vital national asset.
The Defense Forces further revealed the historical importance of the Canadian-made DHC-5 Buffalo, confirming it was the same aircraft used by the former president to take off to Kenya.