Erik Prince Secures DRC Army Aircraft Support Contract

The Democratic Republic of Congo is negotiating a $65 million contract with Erik Prince’s Vectus Global to provide technical and logistical support for the armed forces, particularly military aviation. The agreement involves FARDC aircraft maintenance and is being pursued by Congolese authorities as part of efforts to strengthen aviation capabilities. Africa Intelligence reported that Prince, who leads Vectus Global and is close to Donald Trump, has been seeking the strategic contract for a long time.

Discussions with Congolese officials focus on support services for the FARDC, including technical assistance and logistics. The contract would center on maintaining army aircraft, according to Africa Intelligence, which described aviation support as a key area of cooperation under discussion between Vectus Global and Congolese authorities.

Prince’s company is also linked in the report to broader discussions with Kinshasa over private military support structures. Africa Intelligence previously reported that Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi held a low-key meeting with Prince in New York to discuss a possible extension of his contract.

The discussions come as the DRC continues efforts to improve coordination within its security apparatus. Africa Intelligence reported that Kinshasa is seeking to strengthen a private military framework that has faced coordination challenges. The Congolese authorities have also been involved in other security-related processes, including regional peace efforts and measures connected to armed groups operating in the country. Africa Intelligence reported that the government is balancing military needs with wider diplomatic initiatives.

The FARDC has relied on aviation assets for operations across the country, including areas affected by conflict. The proposed support arrangement with Vectus Global specifically concerns technical and logistical assistance for those aircraft capabilities.