From 7 to 9 April, the African Union convened consultations with troop contributing countries on aviation capabilities for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia at AU Headquarters.
The meeting aimed to finalize the Air Capabilities Allocation Plan for 2026 to 2027, including the distribution of aviation assets, allocation of flight hours and alignment with United Nations reimbursement frameworks. Discussions brought together representatives from the African Union, the United Nations Office to the African Union, the United Nations Support Office in Somalia and UN Headquarters.
Participants reviewed operational requirements, aviation safety standards and integration of air assets within the mission’s concept of operations. Key discussions focused on the allocation of utility, multi role and attack aviation platforms, subject to further technical and financial assessments.
The consultations also addressed deployment planning, including timelines linked to the finalization of agreements, verification processes and availability of financial resources. Emphasis was placed on ensuring a coordinated and phased transition of contingents to maintain operational continuity.
Participants highlighted the need for strengthened AU UN coordination and further technical, financial and operational alignment to support the effective deployment of aviation capabilities for AUSSOM.
