Image source: topwar.ru
The Czech Air Force recently received its first UH-1Y Venom helicopter out of ten machines expected for shipment: 8 new-built were purchased, and 2 decommissioned were "donated" by Washington for providing military assistance to the Armed Forces.
At the same time, the Ministry of Defense does not say how much the deconservation, modernization and delivery of the transferred vehicles will cost "for free", since "it is not possible to accurately calculate the costs."
- it is said in the publication CZDefence.
The Czech press, like the country's officials, traditionally calls any supply of Western products a "technological breakthrough" for the local army. At the same time, all Soviet or Russian combat systems are perceived as "artifacts" of a bygone era.
As indicated, the need to replace the "outdated" Mi-24/35 helicopters and solve the problem of dependence on Russia for spare parts has been actively discussed by the Ministry of Defense since 2014. Initially, it was about the acquisition of multi-purpose vehicles to replace the shock Mi-24.
- stated in the publication.
As a result, a combination of UH-1Y Venom and AH-1Z Viper machines was chosen to replace them.
- said Defense Minister Yana Chernokhova.
