During the handover ceremony for the second Spanish-built coastal surveillance ship for the Venezuelan Navy, President Hugo Chavez said that his government intended odering eight helicopters to work with the new ships.  The ceremony was held at the Puerto Cabello naval base on the acceptance of the ship AB Yavir, pennant number GC-22.

On Thursday, funds were approved, and there was mention of purchasing more Eurocopter AS532 Cougars as well.