On March 31, the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe provided radios, trucks, and spare parts packages for Jeep J8s to Tajikistan’s Border Guard Forces to help Tajikistan secure its borders, according to the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe.
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Bridgette Walker, and Major-General Odiljon Nosirzoda, Border Guard Forces Deputy Commander, participated in the handover ceremony for the equipment and vehicles.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chargé Walker noted that, “For the past 20 years, we have partnered with Tajikistan to secure the borders, counter the threat of terrorism, prevent the spread of nuclear materials, combat drug trafficking, and counter violent extremism. As evidence of our strong partnership, we have committed over $60 million in security-sector assistance to Tajikistan to be implemented and delivered over the next two years. We are stronger when we work together to enhance regional security. Together, we will continue to work towards a brighter future.”
The radios and vehicles, together reportedly valued at US$1.1 million, will enable the Border Guard Forces to maneuver and communicate in the restrictive terrain of the border region.
The Jeep spare parts package, maintenance workshop, and associated training is valued at US$1.85 million, and will help sustain the Border Guard’s ability to provide constant and effective monitoring of the border.
In November, U.S. Embassy previously provided the Border Guards with 18 Jeep J8s valued at US$1.4 million, and this workshop and spare parts package will ensure the Border Guards have the ability to sustain this equipment for years to come.
The Jeep J8 is a military vehicle based on the Jeep Wrangler JK platform. The model was introduced at the Defense Systems & Equipment International (DSEI) trade show on September 13, 2007.
The J8 is equipped with larger brakes, axles and suspension components than the civilian version and can be upgraded further depending on the end user requirement. Available in a number of different variants, the J8 can be produced as a patrol vehicle, utility vehicle, armored vehicle, and ambulance.
Since 1992, the United States has provided over US$330 million in security sector assistance to Tajikistan. This assistance includes training, equipment, and infrastructure. As part of this assistance, the United States has provided 400 vehicles to the Tajik armed forces, valued at over US$13 million. We have also trained over 10,000 soldiers and law enforcement personnel on effective tactics for responding to terrorist threats, combatting drug trafficking, and carrying out special operations.
The United States has partnered with Tajikistan for 30 years and has provided US$1.8 billion in development and security assistance through programs that support Tajikistan’s security, economic development, health, civil society, and education.
