Afghanistan Seeks Military Equipment Upgrades

Afghanistan is seeking additional military hardware and equipment for its army. A recent visit to India by President Karzai highlighted the need for additional equipment and more training for the Afghan National Army (ANA). Some specific needs articulated by the Afghans include additional artillery such as the 122-mm D-30 Howitzer, helicopters and ISR platforms for the Afghan Air Force, and tanks. The United States is providing funding and equipment for the ANA but the "want" list of the Afghans does not always match up with the "give" list of the United States.One problem with the providing of advanced equipment is that the Afghan National Security Forces have a low literacy rate and high turnover making it difficult for the ANSF to train and retain qualified operators and maintainers.