The Venezuelan government is acquiring 13 Mil Mi-17 helicopters from Russia after experiencing increased border tensions with Colombia resulting from repeated FARC guerrilla incursions. The $45 million agreement, which includes spares and tools, is expected to be signed later this year with Rosboronexport. Local sources say the helicopters are earmarked for the Venezuelan army's aviation corps and scheduled for delivery during the first half of 2005.
Source: Flight International