Key Leaders from the Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF) 🇰🇪🪖 pose for a group photo in front of an F-35A Lightning II at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Westfield, Mass., 🇺🇸 September 17, 2026. The 104th Fighter Wing hosted key leaders from the Kenyan Defence Forces for a strategic bilateral engagement aimed at enhancing joint interoperability, optimizing sustainment pipelines, and modernizing combat readiness. The high-level exchange focused on critical pillars of tactical aircraft sustainment, specifically detailing the 104th’s standardized Crew Chief training and the implementation of rigorous Quality Assurance frameworks. Additionally, the delegation examined cutting-edge logistical modernization and visited the Maintenance Squadron’s Metals Technology Shop. 104th Members demonstrated how additive manufacturing is being leveraged at the tactical edge to accelerate parts fabrication and deliver rapid combat support. Through this continuous sharing of technical expertise and procedural innovations, both organizations enhance combat capabilities, ensuring that both the 104th Fighter Wing and the KDF remain agile, lethal, and fully prepared to project airpower whenever called upon. This ongoing collaboration is especially significant as October 1st , 2026 marks the 11-year anniversary of this enduring relationship, a milestone that underscores over a decade of mutual trust, and shared growth. (U.S. Air National Guard Photo by Jay Hewitt)