Putin Gives UPDF $3m Hi-tech Topography Mapping Equipment

Uganda’s army, the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) recently received a consignment of topographic mapping equipment worth $3 million, donated by the Russian Federation’s Ministry of Defence.

The equipment was officially handed over at the Special Forces Command (SFC) Headquarters in Entebbe.

Major General Sergey Marchuk, head of the Russian Military Specialists’ Office in Uganda, handed over the equipment to Brigadier General Paul Namawa, Chief of Staff of the Special Forces Command, who received it on behalf of the UPDF.

Topographic mapping tools are designed to produce highly detailed and accurate representations of terrain, including elevation data, natural landscapes, and man-made structures. Such technology is essential for military planning and operations, as well as in civilian applications like urban development, disaster response, agriculture, and infrastructure planning.

The donation reflects the ongoing military-technical cooperation between Uganda and Russia and highlights the enduring partnership between the two nations.

The handover ceremony was witnessed by officers from the Special Forces Command.

Uganda and Russia have maintained strong ties, especially in military cooperation dating back to Uganda’s independence.

Notably, in February 2023, the two countries launched PRO HELI International Service Limited, a joint venture with Uganda’s National Enterprise Corporation which specializes in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of civil and military helicopters.

The Uganda–Russia cooperation also extends to fields such as academia, scientific research and development, technology, military training, among other fields.