Dominican Republic Air Force Increases Border Surveillance with Haiti

The Dominican Republic Air Force has significantly intensified its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations along the border with Haiti due to the escalating crisis in the region.

This includes the deployment of advanced aircraft and the enhancement of ground forces to ensure comprehensive border security.

To achieve this, the Air Force employs Flying Legend TP-75 Dulus and Tecnam P2006T aircraft.

These aircraft operate five hours daily from the Southern Air Command/Base Air in Barahona, which commenced operations in March.

These measures are part of a broader government strategy to bolster border defenses announced by President Luis Abinader.

Aircraft Details

Dulus TP-75

The Dulus TP-75, a training and patrol variant of the Tucano Replica 915IS developed by the Italian company Flying Legend, is a 70% scale replica of the Embraer EMB-312 Tucano.

It features a metal construction and retractable landing gear, with tandem seats for two crew members.

The aircraft also boasts state-of-the-art avionics and is powered by a turbocharged Rotax 915 iS engine with a four-blade propeller.

The aircraft has a range of 600 nautical miles and an endurance of 5 hours and 30 minutes.

It boasts an operational ceiling of 12,000 feet, a cruising speed of 287.06 km/h, and a maximum speed of 329.66 km/h.

The Dominican Air Force acquired ten units of this model in 2022, with assembly taking place at the San Isidro Air Base. The first units entered service on December 20, 2023.

Tecman P2006T

The P2006T, a high-wing, all-metal, twin-engine light aircraft by Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecnam, accommodates one crew member and three passengers.

Powered by two Rotax 912 engines, it achieves a maximum speed of 287 km/h, a range of 1,204 km, and an endurance of 4 hours and 15 minutes.

The Dominican Air Force has equipped one P2006T aircraft with a Wescam EOS (Electro-Optical System) and sensors for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations.

Enhanced Ground Forces

In addition to aerial surveillance, the Dominican government has strengthened its ground forces with new military vehicles and equipment.

This includes 21 URO Vamtac ST5 armored personnel carriers, capable of transporting nine soldiers and equipped with advanced telemetric systems and automatic weapons.

The Army also utilizes buggies, motorcycles, and drones for expanded surveillance coverage.

These efforts are supported by six newly acquired Huey II helicopters for reconnaissance, tactical operations, and search and rescue missions.

Additional Security Measures

The government has also closed the border with Haiti indefinitely. They have deployed various military units to enforce this closure and maintain order.

This includes the use of high-definition real-time cameras, satellite communication, and internet access in remote areas to monitor and manage the border effectively.

Furthermore, President Abinader has announced incentives for soldiers stationed at the border.

These include additional monthly allowances and salary increases aimed at enhancing their commitment and morale.

These comprehensive measures underscore the Dominican Republic’s commitment to maintaining security and stability.

They are particularly focused along its border with Haiti amidst the ongoing crisis.