Colonel Hervé Sètondji Allotchénou has been installed as the new chief of staff of Benin's air force. The appointment ceremony took place on November 12, 2026, at the Cotonou Air Base. Minister of National Defense, Gildas Agonkan, officiated the event. As the new head of Benin's air force, Colonel Allotchénou will lead a strategic component of the Beninese Armed Forces. The air force is currently undergoing modernization and capacity reinforcement.
Colonel Allotchénou's career in the military began in 1999 when he joined the Special Course at the École de l'Air in Salon-de-Provence, France. He obtained an aeronautical engineering certificate two years later. The colonel then pursued his military pilot training in Cognac and Avord. In 2003, he earned his military pilot's license. His training continued in the United States, Gabon, and Germany.
The colonel's experience includes various leadership roles. He commanded the Mixed Transport Squadron and the Operations Division of the Air Force headquarters. He also led the Cotonou Air Base. Additionally, Colonel Allotchénou served at the President's military cabinet as head of the Air Division. Between 2022 and 2023, he was deployed to Mali as part of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission.
During his deployment to Mali, Colonel Allotchénou worked on planning future operations. He later assumed responsibility for this role in the central sector. This international experience complements his expertise in conducting and preparing operations. Upon his return to Benin, the colonel contributed to the work of the Inter-Armed Forces Doctrine and Studies Center.
On February 2, 2024, Colonel Allotchénou was appointed deputy chief of staff of the air force. Two years later, he was promoted to head the air force component of the Beninese Armed Forces. In his new role, he will utilize his experience as a pilot, planner, and commander. Colonel Allotchénou will oversee the reinforcement of Benin's air capabilities.
Colonel Allotchénou's achievements include being recognized as an "Outstanding International Officer" by the US Air Force. This distinction is awarded to the most meritorious foreign trainees. In 2019, he completed his training at the Führungsakademie der Bundeswehr in Germany, earning a war school diploma.
As the new chief of Benin's air force, Colonel Hervé Allotchénou will lead efforts to modernize and strengthen the country's air capabilities. His extensive experience in military aviation and international operations makes him well-suited for the role. The Beninese Armed Forces will benefit from his expertise in conducting and preparing operations.
Key points
- Colonel Hervé Allotchénou was trained in prestigious military schools in France, the United States, and Germany.
- He has extensive experience in various leadership roles, including commanding the Mixed Transport Squadron and the Cotonou Air Base.
- Colonel Allotchénou was deployed to Mali as part of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission.
