KDF soldiers take part in multinational airborne exercise in US
By Kiprono Keileb, December 19, 2025Kenya Defence Forces personnel have taken part in two separate international engagements, joining military teams from across the world in training and competitive events aimed at sharpening skills and strengthening cooperation.
In a statement shared on X on Friday, December 19, 2025, KDF said its soldiers participated in Operation Toy Drop 2025 in the United States, an annual multinational airborne exercise that brings together elite airborne units for joint training and professional exchange.
“Operation Toy Drop (OTD) 2025 recently concluded with the participation of KDF Jumpmasters and the Green Eagles Freefall Team from the Army Special Operations Brigade (ASOB). The 25th Randy Oler Memorial Operation Toy Drop was conducted at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, bringing together multinational airborne forces in a demonstration of operational excellence, partnership, and service,” the statement reads
The exercise traces its roots to a modest beginning before growing into a large international event that combines military training with outreach activities. Over the years, it has become a familiar platform for forces to learn from one another while operating in a shared environment.
“Established in 1998 by then–Staff Sergeant Randy Oler, a U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne) [USACAPOC(A)] Soldier, Operation Toy Drop began as a small airborne training event that combined proficiency training with community outreach. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest multinational airborne operations in the world,” the statement reads
According to KDF, the 2025 edition was organised as a structured training programme focusing on coordination between different forces, standardisation of airborne procedures, and engagement beyond the military setting.
“OTD 2025 was coordinated by USACAPOC(A) as a large-scale collective airborne training exercise. The expanded, week-long operation focused on joint-force and partner-nation interoperability, airborne standardisation and validation, and meaningful community engagement,” the statement reads
Training activities were carried out in stages, allowing participants to refresh and validate their skills before taking part in live airborne operations alongside counterparts from other nations.
“The exercise was conducted in two phases. The first phase involved Jump master training and validation, followed by the second phase, Jump Week. These activities provided valuable opportunities for professional exchange, skills enhancement, and capacity building among participating forces,” the statement reads
KDF said Kenyan troops displayed high levels of discipline and technical ability throughout the exercise.
“Throughout the operation, the Kenyan contingent demonstrated exceptional airborne proficiency, discipline, and professionalism, reinforcing Kenya’s reputation as a dependable and trusted partner in multinational operational environments,” the statement reads
Sailing competition held in India
In a separate international engagement, the Kenya Navy also represented the country at a major sailing competition held in India, competing against dozens of teams from around the world.
“Kenya Navy sailing team participated in this year’s 14th edition of Admiral’s Cup Sailing Regatta, which was held at India Naval Academy in Ezhimala, India, from 08 to 14 December 2025,” the statement reads
The regatta attracted strong competition, with Kenyan sailors testing their skills against experienced international crews in challenging conditions.
“The event drew together more than 33 international teams who competed for gold and silver. Kenyan team comprising Captain Robinson Kiplangat (Officer In Charge), Lieutenant Jackson Ndibo and Second Lieutenant Catherine Mutuku emerged in position 4 overall in the silver league,” the statement reads
KDF said the competition pushed participants to make quick decisions while adapting to changing conditions at sea.
“The spirited competitors were tested on their abilities to make decisions under pressure while adapting to changing winds,” the statement reads
The Navy described the event as an opportunity to celebrate shared values among sailors from different nations.
“The regatta was a celebration of seamanship, sportsmanship and international camaraderie,” the statement reads