Slovakia to acquire 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters

Slovakia is set to acquire 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States as part of a defense deal linked to the country’s support for Ukraine. The agreement, valued at approximately $600 million, includes the helicopters, associated equipment, training, and AGM-114 Hellfire II missiles

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Charles Smith, pilot, Marine Corps Aviation Detachment Patuxent River and Capt. Gregory Moore, operational test director, Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 1 (VMX-1), pilot an AH-1Z Viper during a joint air-to-ground missile (JAGM) operational test at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Dec. 6, 2021. VMX-1 fired and evaluated the JAGM to determine its suitability and effectiveness to support expeditionary advanced base operations, such as conducting strike and Close Air Support Missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Gabrielle Sanders)


In addition to the helicopters, Slovakia will receive 26 T-700 GE 401C engines, 1,680 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS), and 14 Honeywell embedded GPS/INS systems. The package also includes support equipment, weapons, countermeasures, training, and logistical support services.

The Slovak government has already transferred MiG-29 fighter jets and SA-6 air defense systems to Ukraine, and the AH-1Z purchase is seen as partial compensation for this military aid. The Slovak Ministry of Defense had said back in 2023 that the United States will contribute $660 million towards the helicopter deal through the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program, with Slovakia covering the remaining $340 million.

The United States will provide substantial support for the integration of the AH-1Z Viper into the Slovak Armed Forces, including training, maintenance, and logistical support. This comprehensive package ensures that Slovak pilots and maintenance crews are fully prepared to operate and maintain the new helicopters.

The acquisition of the AH-1Z Viper is expected to take several years to complete, with deliveries and training schedules to be determined. Once fully operational, the helicopters will become a cornerstone of Slovakia’s military capabilities, contributing to the country’s overall security posture.

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