You're reading: Croatia to supply 14 helicopters to Ukrainian Air Forces

Croatia is planning to supply 14 Mi-8MTV-1 mkilitary transport helicopters to Ukraine's armed forces to support Kyiv's ongoing military operation against Russia-backed separatists in the country's eastern part, the U.S. Defense News portal reported, referring to Croatian daily Jutarnji List.

“The initiative was discussed by Croatian government officials and U.S. congressmen in Zagreb this month,” reads the report.

The Croatian Ministry of Defense has announced plans to acquire 20 UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters from the US military, and provide 14 of its Mil Mi-8MTV-1 transport helos.

“The potential acquisition of Black Hawks by Croatia and the related supply of transport helos to Ukraine will be further discussed in September, when Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, is scheduled to visit Croatia to attend a military exercise in Slunj,” reads the report.

“Under the plan, in addition to the copters, the U.S. military will provide the Croatian Air Force with logistics support, training for pilots and technicians, as well as spare parts for the aircraft,” Defense News reported.

According to the report, Croatia’s armed forces operate a helo fleet consisting of 14 Mi-8MTV-1 helos and 10 Mi-171Sh copters.