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75th anniversary of the Air Force, Begaj and Nufi at the NATO base in Kuçovë: We will reopen the Aviation School in Vlora

2026-04-30 18:31:10Aktualitet SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

75th anniversary of the Air Force, Begaj and Nufi at the NATO base in

The NATO Tactical Air Base in Kuçova was transformed into the center of celebrations for the 75th anniversary of the creation of the Albanian Military Aviation. The jubilee ceremony brought together the highest heads of state, representatives of allies and flight veterans, to honor a history that began in April 1951 and that today is writing the chapters of modernization according to Alliance standards.

This activity was attended by the President of the Republic, Bajram Begaj, the Minister of Defense, Ermal Nufi, the Minister of Internal Affairs, Besfort Lamallari, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Arben Kingji, as well as family members of the martyrs of the homeland.

During his speech, President Begaj praised the Air Force's transformational journey, emphasizing the strategic partnership with the US and NATO. He described the modernization plan as a necessity for collective security.

"The modernization of the helicopter fleet, the development of GBAD (ground-based air defense) capacities and the establishment of the Unmanned Aircraft Detachment are investments with which we have opened a new chapter. The Air Force is not only a guarantor of sovereignty, but an active contributor to NATO security," said President Begaj.

Minister of Defense Nufi spoke about an important investment by the Albanian government, the reopening of the Aviation School in Vlora after two decades. The Aviation School will train military and civilian pilots, as well as air traffic controllers, preserving the tradition of military aviation in the country.

"The reestablishment of the Aviation School is a necessary step to guarantee the continuity of tradition and the preparation of new generations of pilots and specialists,"  said Minister Nufi.

Further, Minister of Defense Nufi stated that the modernization of existing capacities is a strategic priority, directly related to national security, underlining that work is being done to improve radar systems and strengthen air defense. According to the minister, the Kuçova tactical air base remains a key strategic point for Albania and for the Alliance itself, which increases Albania's role in the region.

"Capacity modernization is precisely the investment in tools, technology, and systems that are essential to increasing readiness and interoperability with our allies."

"Developing new capacities, especially unmanned vehicles, modernizing radar systems, strengthening air defense, as very important and crucial elements for today's security reality. And finally, consolidating strategic assets, such as the Kuçova air base, where we have chosen today to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Air Force, which is not only an Albanian national asset, but is also an asset for the entire NATO Military Alliance, a contributor to peace and an indicator of military strength,"  said Minister Nufi.

Focusing on the stages of the history of the Air Force's transformation, Minister of Defense Nufi praised the contribution of the pilots, technicians and specialists who have served with dedication and sacrifice, in the service of the Homeland, even giving their lives in the line of duty.

Reopening of the "Aviation School" in Vlora

One of the main news items of the ceremony was the announcement by the Minister of Defense, Ermal Nufi, about the reopening of the Aviation School in Vlora after two decades. This institution will serve to prepare military and civilian pilots, as well as air traffic controllers, ensuring the continuity of the tradition from generation to generation.

Minister Nufi underlined that the Kuçova Base is no longer simply a national asset, but a key strategic point for the entire NATO Alliance in the Balkan region.

From Lapraka to Kuçova, 75 years of history

The history of Albanian Aviation officially began on April 24, 1951, when pilot Peço Polena made the first flight in Albanian airspace with the JAK-9P aircraft.

That same day, the first Fighter Squadron was established at the Lapraka airfield, under the command of Babaçe Faiku, equipped with 12 aircraft. From those modest beginnings, today Albania operates with modern technology, advanced radar systems and a tactical base that stands at the heart of NATO operations.


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