December 23, 2024
Several days after Prime Minister Conille expressed his desire for the international community to fulfill its promises to Haiti regarding the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, the United States Department of Defense began the delivery of a new series of armored vehicles to Toussaint Louverture International Airport this Friday.
In a recent interview with Calvin Hughes of WPLG-ABC News held in Port-au-Prince and previously with Stephen Sackur of BBC, the Haitian head of government indicated that the mission was lacking equipment and resources. MSS Commander Godfrey Otunge echoed similar concerns.
In June 2024, Global Initiative reported that the mission would cost approximately $600 million USD annually, while the United States, France, and Canada contributed a meager total of $21 million.
Under the direction of the United States Southern Command, several C-17 cargo planes from the U.S. Air Force will transport 24 additional Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) MaxxPro vehicles to Haiti. These armored vehicles will be handed over to Kenyan troops who are part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, a crucial mission to restore order in areas under the control of armed groups.
This initiative follows the delivery of 10 MRAPs previously provided by the United States, which are currently being used by the Haitian National Police (HNP) to carry out operations aimed at restoring security. These vehicles, known for their ability to withstand explosive and ballistic attacks, will play an essential role in the joint missions of the MSS and the HNP.
In addition to the MRAPs, 34 shooter protection kits, commonly referred to as “turrets,” will also be delivered to be installed on these vehicles. These installations, carried out by contractors funded by the Department of Defense, will enhance the protection and tactical field of vision of security forces during field operations.
This logistical operation was made possible by a decision taken by President Joe Biden last April, when he signed a Presidential Drawdown Authorization allowing the transfer of U.S. federal resources to countries contributing to the MSS mission. This support includes not only equipment but also spare parts and services for the maintenance and repair of the armored vehicles deployed in Haiti.
The strengthening of the security forces’ capabilities in Haiti comes as part of Resolution 2699, adopted by the United Nations Security Council in October 2023. This resolution authorizes member states to deploy multinational forces in support of the Haitian National Police’s efforts to restore security and create conditions conducive to free and transparent elections.
With these new deliveries, the MSS mission is expected to be better equipped to continue supporting the HNP in its efforts to restore order amid endemic violence. The U.S. support, which has already exceeded $300 million, is part of a long-term strategy aimed at stabilizing the country and laying the groundwork for peaceful and democratic elections. Coca