Photo by the press service of the US Embassy in Tajikistan
The United States has transferred six unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) worth a total of $2.3 million to Tajikistan's National Guard to help secure the country's borders, the US Embassy in Dushanbe reported.
The handover ceremony took place on October 2. It was attended by Joel Ortes, US Chargé d'Affaires ad interim in Tajikistan, and Major General Bahriddin Azamzoda, First Deputy Commander of the National Guard.
An unmanned aircraft system includes not only the drone itself but also a ground control station, communication links, launch and recovery equipment, and software.
According to the embassy, the systems will allow Tajikistan's National Guard to conduct continuous monitoring in support of counterterrorism operations.
«This equipment represents more than just a transfer of resources. It reflects the trust, partnership, and shared goals that have characterized relations between our countries for many years,» Ortes said at the ceremony.
The statement also says the American business community is ready to provide Tajikistan with products and services to help operate the systems and improve their effectiveness.
The embassy said the US has provided Tajikistan with more than $600 million in security assistance since 1992. Cooperation includes training of military personnel, equipment deliveries, and infrastructure projects. Washington has previously given Tajik border troops and the Defense Ministry military vehicles, specialized vehicles with equipment for detecting illicit trafficking in nuclear and radioactive materials, body armor, and gear for mountain operations. The US also financed the construction of facilities for law enforcement agencies and built or renovated more than ten border outposts on the Tajik-Afghan border.
