Jamaica acquires long-range surveillance aircraft, helicopters to patrol territorial waters

It will not be business as usual for operators of shipping vessels who carry illicit items into Jamaica or who fish illegally in Jamaican territorial waters, now that the Government has acquired a KingAir 350 Extended Range surveillance aircraft as well as two surveillance helicopters.

The aircraft, and helicopters, will be housed at a new hangar that was opened yesterday at the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) air wing in St Andrew.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness, alongside JDF chief of Defence Staff, Major General Rocky Meade cut the ribbon to officially open the new hangar this morning.

Holness told the gathering of dignitaries and officials involved with the developments that, "Jamaica has made an investment in both security and our economy. Greater security means a stronger economy".

According to Holness, the government is committed to ensuring that ensuring criminals don't take over Jamaica.

He noted that Jamaica is the only Caribbean territory to possess such aircraft capabilities and declared that the plane will be used to  protect the island and help neighbours as well.

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