Operations at the Jamaica Defence Force have been enhanced with the donation of over 100 personal role radios and a language training centre from the British High Commission. The radios were handed over today to the Minister of National Security Hon Peter Bunting and Chief of Defence Staff at the JDF Major General Anthony Anderson by British High Commissioner Howard Drake at the British High Commission in Kingston.

Speaking at the handover Minister Bunting said the British government has been one of the most reliable partners to the Government of Jamaica particularly as it relates to national security.  He said the personal role radios improves not only the effectiveness of the communication but will also allow the army to be more accountable when operating in support of operations with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

Speaking to the language centre he said it will be useful in tackling the guns for drugs trade. He said it will also increase the capacity of relations with the Haitian government.

In thanking the British government Minister Bunting said the donation was “timely and well thought out.”

“I not only thank you but look forward to continued deepening of the relationship and expansion of that historical support” the Minister said.

The use of Personal Role Radios is expected to significantly enhance combat effectiveness within the JDF.

It will replace traditional methods of communication to front line soldiers such as hand signals and shouting.

The equipment for the language laboratory includes thirteen computers, two touch screen computers, a projector, a server, hard drive, language software and network equipment.