President Edgar Lungu says his government will equip defense forces with modern equipment to enable them address new security challenges efficiently.

The Head of State, who showed up wearing black shades, was speaking at the official opening of the L 15 Simulator Training Centre at the Zambia Airforce (ZAF) in Lusaka.

President Lungu said the acquisition of the smart technology and assets which guaranteed operational capability without compromising standards, was in line with ZAF’s vision of creating an efficient force.

“It is gratifying to note that systems in the simulator centre are capable of monitoring the aircraft from the ground and making it possible for ground crew to easily detect faults and rectify them. I also note that training can be done on the ground without taking to the air, hence saving on fuel,” said President Lungu.

“With Zambia’s growing economy coupled with huge investments from local and foreign investors, the need for modern defence systems cannot be overemphasised.”

And ZAF Commander, Eric Chimese said opening of the Simulator Training Centre redefined and opened a new chapter in flying training of fighter pilots in the Airforce.

Lieut Gen Chimese explained that computer based ground training systems in Aviation had played a major role in building pilots’ skills and confidence by providing cost effective ways of training.

Meanwhile, CATIC Regional President, Li Houding said the L 15 Simulator Training Centre was the most advanced in Africa and would enable ZAF build up a cohort of well-trained pilots.