Kenya to Pioneer UK's Revolutionary Zephyr Surveillance Glider.

Kenya has been chosen as the first country to test the UK's advanced Zephyr military surveillance glider, highlighting East Africa’s strategic importance. 

The Zephyr, developed by Airbus for the UK Ministry of Defence, is a solar-powered, high-altitude pseudo-satellite (HAPS) and is seen as a cheap alternative to SpaceX and Starlink Programmes developed by billionaire Elon Musk.  It flies at 70,000 feet, above commercial air traffic and weather, and can stay airborne for months.

The remote region of Laikipia in Rift Valley Kenya has been chosen as the testing ground for the Zephyr. The Zephyr will enhance surveillance capabilities for border security, anti-piracy efforts, and disaster management. Its testing is not expected to pose any danger to Rift Valley residents and wildlife as it is relatively small and light.

“Its wingspan is the breadth of an A380 Super jumbo but the craft weighs less than an average British adult, depending on its payload,” reports indicate. 

The Zephyr trial is set to begin later this year. It could lead to wider use of the system, positioning Kenya as a leader in advanced security technology. The world will watch as Kenya pioneers this innovative project, opening new avenues for international cooperation and security advancements.

“If the project is a success, the aircraft would be ready to fulfill missions providing telecommunications or military surveillance,” the report added