The latest commercial satellite imagery acquired by DigitalGlobe confirms the arrival of two Cessna-208 Caravan to Nigerien Air Force’s Base Aérienne 101 in Niamey. In October 2015, it was reported that the U.S. Ambassador presented the two Caravan along with $36 million worth of additional equipment and training.
The U.S. Embassy in Niger notes the aircraft are equipped for the Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance mission.
Along with the Caravan, imagery shows what appears to be a new hangar under construction. The new construction activity may suggest that the aircraft will be based in Niamey. A total of three Caravan are visible in imagery acquired in November 2015. Niger previously received two Caravan with FY 2012 Section 1206 Funding which included expenses like maintenance and pilot training.
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