Kathmandu, Sept 4: The United States delivered two new M28 Skytrucks to the Nepali Army through a $37 million Foreign Military Financing grant, expanding Nepal’s fleet to five. The U.S. previously provided two Skytrucks in 2019, while Nepal purchased one directly.
At Tribhuvan International Airport, Ambassador Dean Thompson handed over the aircraft to the Army in the presence of Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Defense Minister Manbir Rai, Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel, senior officials, and PZL partners.
Ambassador Thompson emphasized that these aircraft strengthen Nepal’s humanitarian response and overall capability. “These aircraft are more than machines, they are lifelines. They will help Nepal respond faster and more effectively to emergencies across the country,” he said. “This delivery reflects just one part of our broader security cooperation, including training, exchanges, equipment transfers, and planning, and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to a resilient, capable, and secure Nepal.”
Addressing the ceremony, Foreign Affairs Minister Arzu Rana Deuba said, “This moment is significant not only for enhancing Nepali Army Disaster Response Capabilities but also as a symbol of the enduring friendship and cooperation between Nepal and the United States. The United States has remained a steadfast development partner and a reliable friend of Nepal, supporting us in governance, humanitarian assistance disaster response, peace keeping and capacity building.”
Built by PZL Mielec, a Lockheed Martin subsidiary, these versatile aircraft, including one configured as a medevac air ambulance, will boost Nepal’s disaster relief operations. Their short takeoff and landing capability allows access to remote airstrips and rugged terrain. Pilots and ground crews will receive intensive training in Europe and Nepal to ensure effective operation and maintenance.
The handover builds on the U.S. donation of two Skytrucks in 2019. Since then, the Nepali Army has used them extensively for humanitarian relief, medical evacuations, and supply transport to remote communities across Nepal. #nepal #NepalUS
