KATHMANDU: The United States government has formally handed over two M-28 Skytruck aircraft to the Nepal Army.

At a special ceremony in Kathmandu on Thursday, U.S. Ambassador to Nepal Dean R. Thompson handed the aircraft keys to Chief of Army Staff General Ashokraj Sigdel. Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba and Defense minister Man Bir Rai also attended the event.

The two aircraft, manufactured by Poland’s PZL Mielec under U.S. government orders, are part of a grant package worth $30.3 million (approximately NPR 4.18 billion). Originally scheduled for delivery in April, the aircraft arrived four months later than planned.

Designed for short takeoff and landing (STOL) operations, the M-28 Skytruck is considered highly suitable for Nepal’s mountainous terrain. Each aircraft can carry 18 passengers or a 2,300 kg payload, fly at altitudes of up to 25,000 feet, and operate in all weather conditions, day and night.

Equipped with Honeywell avionics and powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65B turboprop engines, the Skytruck reaches a top speed of 350 km/h.

One of the aircraft has been configured as an air ambulance—the first of its kind for the Nepal Army—while the other will primarily serve cargo missions. Both will also support humanitarian relief, medical evacuation, paratroop drops, rescue operations, and essential supply transport to remote areas.

The grant package also includes pilot training, spare parts, medical equipment, and technical support, with the responsibility of delivering the aircraft from Poland to Kathmandu borne by the United States.

Chief of Army Staff General Sigdel expressed appreciation, noting that such assistance has strengthened defense ties and broadened cooperation between Nepal and the United States.

Ambassador Thompson highlighted that the aircraft would act as a bridge of friendship between the two countries, particularly in the area of humanitarian assistance and disaster management.