The Peruvian Armed forces have reportedly put in an “urgent” request in for twelve Mi-171Sh and six Mi-35P helicopters, according to local reports.  A figure of US$260 million is being quoted locally for the acquisition, which would included crew training and technical assistance.  The purchase would be spread between the forces as follows

– Air Force – five Mi-171 and six MI-35
– Army – five Mi-171
– Navy – two Mi-171

The prime operational need for these helicopters centres on counterinsurgency operations in the strategic valleys of the Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro rivers.

William P Johnson – HeliHub.com US correspondent