On December 16, 2024, the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), through its subsidiary Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation (SAC), delivered two Y-9E medium transport aircraft to Namibia, marking the first overseas sale of the Y-9E. The contract, finalized in early 2023, was officially confirmed during a handover ceremony in Grootfontein, Otjozondjupa Region. Namibian President Ngolo Mbemba, presiding over the event, described the aircraft as enhancing the operational capabilities and readiness of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) for both military and humanitarian operations.
The delivery process for Namibia’s Y-9Es began in late 2023, with the aircraft transiting through seven countries before arriving at Grootfontein. The Y-9E was first showcased internationally at the 2018 Singapore Air Show as an export-oriented platform. Lyu Li, deputy general manager of CATIC, confirmed during the handover event that the company would ensure after-sales support and maintenance throughout the aircraft’s lifecycle.
Namibian Air Force leadership stated that the aircraft will play a role in supporting military and non-military operations across Namibia’s vast and varied terrain. Air Vice Marshal Theophilus Schande noted the Y-9E’s importance for logistical tasks, including national missions such as delivering drought relief and humanitarian supplies to remote areas. President Mbemba reiterated that the acquisition aligns with Namibia’s efforts to maintain defense readiness and strengthen its ability to protect national territorial integrity. The president also referred to the ongoing cooperation between Namibia and China, facilitated through Chinese companies such as the China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC). He emphasized that technology transfers from Chinese firms would gradually allow Namibian forces to operate and manage advanced systems independently.