British Army and KDF undergo six-week joint military training in Laikipia

The annual training, which took place from October to November at the Ole Naishu training area, introduced new technology to enhance soldier training. 

The exercise introduced advanced Tactical Engagement Simulation (TES) equipment, a system that is designed to enhance tactical effectiveness. 

The TES technology works by using computerized vests that record and transmit tactical data allowing control units to track their movements, positions, and actions in real time. The system records important details such as firing accuracy, speed, and direction. 

This data helps instructors analyze the soldiers' performance to improve overall operational efficiency. The training was witnessed by senior military officials from both the UK and Kenya, including Brigadier Olly Bryant; KDF General Officer Commanding (GOC) Eastern Command, Major General Kutto; Commander 2 Mechanized Brigade, Brigadier Kamoiro; Kenya Army Chief of Training, Brigadier Mzee; and Commanding Officer 5KR,Lieutenant Colonel Mulwa. 

Brigadier William Kamoiro of the KDF spoke about the benefits of using TES technology, noting that it brought more realism to the training and helped save live ammunition. He praised the performance of the British Army's 2 Rifles and KDF's Bravo Company of 5KR, highlighting their ability to work together to achieve training objectives and improve their skills. 

Kamoiro confidently stated that the training had prepared the soldiers for deployment. 

“The technology to review the exercise, enabled by the use of TES equipment, not only introduces realism into the exercise but also saves the battle group from wasting live ammunition as the team perfects their skills. The British Army’s 2 Rifles and KDF’sBravo Company of 5KR have demonstrated well-trained battle groups who know what they are doing and how to target and clear the enemy to achieve the set objective. I can confidently report that through the joint exercise, the soldiers are ready for deployment,” he said. 

Major James Athow-Frost, overseeing British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) Tactical Operations, explained how Kenya’s hot, dry landscape and basic camps in the bush provide excellent conditions for preparing troops for tough operations in challenging environments. 

The use of TES also helped both armies exchange knowledge and experiences while analyzing their activities in a virtual space. 

“Kenya offers an incredible terrain for the British troops to train - hot and arid locations and living in basic camps in the bush. This enables the units to be prepared for operations in demanding terrain. The combined training offers the two battle groups an opportunity to exchange experience and use technology like the TES program which brings all battle groups’ activities into a virtual world.” 

KDF’s Major General Kutto also praised the partnership between the two forces, saying that they learn a lot from each other. He emphasized that as security threats evolve, it is essential to stay ahead of potential adversaries, and the introduction of TES technology was a major step in that direction.

Kenya remains one of UK’s leading defence partners in East Africa. Beyond training, the BATUK also invests in community development in Kenya, partnering with local governments and community organizations to address community needs.