Kathmandu, Sept 4 – The United States has delivered two new M28 Skytruck aircraft to the Nepali Army under a $37 million Foreign Military Financing (FMF) grant, expanding Nepal’s Skytruck fleet to five. The U.S. had previously donated two Skytrucks in 2019, while Nepal acquired one directly.
At a handover ceremony held at Tribhuvan International Airport, U.S. Ambassador Dean R. Thompson formally presented the aircraft to the Nepali Army in the presence of Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Defense Minister Manbir Rai, Chief of Army Staff General Ashok Raj Sigdel, senior officials, and representatives from PZL Mielec, the Lockheed Martin subsidiary that manufactures the aircraft.
Ambassador Thompson highlighted the role of the new aircraft in strengthening Nepal’s humanitarian and disaster response capacity. “These aircraft are more than machines, they are lifelines. They will help Nepal respond faster and more effectively to emergencies across the country,” he said. He added that the delivery reflects a broader U.S.–Nepal security partnership encompassing training, exchanges, equipment, and joint planning.
Foreign Minister Deuba underscored the significance of the handover for Nepal–U.S. relations. “This moment is significant not only for enhancing Nepali Army disaster response capabilities but also as a symbol of the enduring friendship and cooperation between Nepal and the United States,” she said, noting Washington’s long-standing support in governance, peacekeeping, humanitarian response, and capacity building.
The newly delivered Skytrucks, including one configured as a medevac air ambulance, will bolster Nepal’s ability to conduct disaster relief operations, medical evacuations, and supply transport in remote and rugged regions. With their short takeoff and landing capabilities, the aircraft are designed for operations in challenging terrain. Pilots and ground crews will undergo specialized training in both Europe and Nepal to ensure safe and effective operation.
The delivery builds on the 2019 donation of two Skytrucks, which the Nepali Army has since deployed extensively for humanitarian relief missions, medical evacuations, and transporting supplies to hard-to-reach communities.
