Botswana Defence Force strengthens aviation and space capabilities

The Botswana Defence Force (BDF) is enhancing its military aviation and space domain capabilities through regional and international partnerships. South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya recently visited Thebephatshwa Air Base in Kweneng to meet with BDF Air Arm Commander Major General Hendrick Rakgantshwana. The visit aimed to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and discuss aviation capabilities to support peace and stability in Southern Africa.

In a separate effort to modernize operational planning, the BDF is participating in training focused on the space domain. Led by representatives from United States Space Forces Europe and Africa, the initiative helps BDF planners integrate space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) into military decision-making. The training emphasizes using space capabilities to provide actionable information and a multi-domain approach to modern military operations.