The Republic of Zambia is set to enhance its air capabilities after the U.S. State Department approved a foreign military sale. The deal, estimated at $100 million, will provide Zambia with additional Bell 412 Enhanced Performance (EP) helicopters, alongside logistical and program support. Financed by a blend of Foreign Military Financing and Zambian national funds, this acquisition aims to modernise Zambia’s defense infrastructure and highlights its strategic role in South Central Africa.
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Sgt. Gregory Williams, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The Zambian Air Force (ZAF) has experience with Bell helicopters, already operating Bell 212 and 412 variants. According to a defenceWeb article, the ZAF added two Bell 412EP helicopters in March 2024, and the U.S. announced an $80 million grant for four Bell 412EPs in September 2023. The ZAF also received three Bell/Agusta-Bell 412SP helicopters in 2021, joining Agusta-Bell 205s. More recently, they acquired a second-hand Bell 212 in June 2023, and two Enstrom 480B training helicopters in March 2024, according to the defenceWeb article.
This new sale includes radio communication and navigation systems, weather radar, and pilot and maintainer training. In-country Contractor Field Service Representatives support, Program Management Reviews, and technical assistance are also part of the deal. The package also includes aviation ground support equipment, special tools, spare parts, and technical manuals. Bell Textron, of Fort Worth, Texas, is the primary contractor. Offset agreements will likely be negotiated between Zambia and Bell Textron.
The sale is intended to bolster U.S. foreign policy by strengthening a key partner in South Central Africa. The helicopters will improve Zambia’s ability to conduct peacekeeping, regional security operations, and humanitarian aid missions. The equipment will be easily integrated into the Zambian military and isn’t expected to alter the regional military balance.
While the deal is valued at an estimated $100 million, the final cost may be lower. The actual number of helicopters being procured is not listed as well.
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