Avellon Williams
Point-au-Prince, Haiti- In a significant boost to the ongoing security efforts in Haiti, the U.S. military has announced the delivery of 24 additional Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) MaxxPro vehicles to Kenyan personnel deployed in the Caribbean nation. This move is part of a broader initiative to support the Haitian National Police (HNP) in their battle against heavily armed gangs that have taken control of much of the capital.
Background and Context
The Kenyan contingent, comprising approximately 400 police officers, is leading a United Nations-ratified Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission aimed at restoring security and stability in Haiti. This mission was first requested by Haiti’s previous government in 2022, but the Kenyan forces remain the only group to have arrived so far.
The Delivery and Its Significance
On August 23, 2024, U.S. Air Force C-17 cargo aircraft transported the additional MRAPs to Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince. These vehicles will augment the existing fleet of 10 MRAPs already provided by the U.S., enhancing the capabilities of the Kenyan forces and the HNP in joint security operations. In addition to the MRAPs, 34 Overhead Gunner Protection Kits, commonly referred to as “turrets,” will also be delivered.
These turrets will be installed on the armored vehicles by Department of Defense-funded contractors, significantly improving the tactical field of view and protection for MSS personnel during operations.
Challenges and Previous Setbacks
The need for these additional vehicles and turrets is underscored by recent challenges faced by the Kenyan forces. In late July, Kenyan troops were forced to withdraw from the Haitian town of Ganthier due to inadequate equipment, specifically the lack of turrets on the initial MRAPs supplied by the Americans. This withdrawal marked a major setback in one of the mission’s first significant outings from the capital.
Broader Support and International Efforts
The delivery of these MRAPs follows President Joe Biden’s signing of a Presidential Drawdown Authority in April, which enabled the transfer of U.S. federal resources to support nations contributing personnel to the MSS mission.
This authority has facilitated the provision of equipment, supplies, parts, and services necessary for mission sustainment and operations. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 2699, adopted on October 2, 2023, authorized the formation and deployment of the MSS mission to support HNP efforts in re-establishing security in Haiti and creating conditions conducive to holding free and fair elections.
Impact and Progress
Since the arrival of the MSS’s first contingent in June, several key milestones have been achieved, including the resumption of commercial air traffic at Toussaint Louverture International Airport, public engagement by Haiti’s Prime Minister on restoring security, and the commencement of joint MSS/HNP patrols.
These efforts are part of a robust and multi-faceted support package aimed at helping Haiti move towards a more secure and prosperous future. The additional MRAPs and turrets are expected to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Kenyan forces and the HNP, providing them with better protection and tactical advantages as they continue their critical mission to stabilize Haiti.
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