From Israel to purchase 7 training helicopters from Italy in multi-billion dollar deal
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleThe Defense Ministry announces it will purchase seven training helicopters from an Italian defense contractor, in a multi-billion dollar deal that will see Rome buy an equivalent value of Israeli aerospace technology.
Reports in Hebrew-language media estimate the deal to be worth $350 million, and includes 20 years of aircraft maintenance from Italian contractor Leonardo.
The Italian-made AW-119 training helicopters will replace the IAF’s current Bell 206 training aircraft, which Israel bought in 1970.
The reciprocal procurement deal signed is similar to one reached between the two countries for trainer jets in 2012. Under that deal, Israel purchased three Aermacchi M-346s manufactured by Leonardo for $1 billion. Rome, in exchange, has purchased an equivalent value of Israeli aerospace technology, including satellites and surveillance planes.
The Times of Israel Community.