He recalled that Argentina purchased from Russia in 2011 two Mi-171E helicopters to supply their polar stations in Antarctica, as well as for performing search and rescue operations.

“Currently, we are studying the possibility of purchasing more,” the minister said, explaining that the number of choppers purchased will depend on the terms of financing, reported TASS.

The Mi-171E, from the production holding, Russian Helicopters, was created taking in mind the natural topographic features of the region and has a number of advantages while operating over flat to rolling terrain in the mountains and at temperatures from +50 to -50 C. The helicopter is also able to operate in adverse weather conditions when navigating difficult terrain.

When selecting the Mi-171E, order representatives  factored in the wide range of uses for the helicopter: it can carry up to 26 people in the passenger seat or up to 12 victims on stretchers accompanied by medical personnel; the cargo version of the helicopter transports up to 4 tons of cargo inside the cabin or on external suspension; and the chopper is equipped with a Safir 5K/G Mi auxiliary power unit and VC-2500-03 engines, which allow the Mi-171E to operate at high altitudes in rarefied air. For helicopters of this type, additional equipment is also available, which expands the scope of operations and tasks.

Argentina also intends to continue cooperation with Russia in securing its Antarctic campaign. This was stated by the Defense Minister Agustín Rossi.

He recalled that the Argentine government for the seventh time is chartering the Russian diesel-electric ship “Vasily Golovnin”, which successfully delivers fuel, equipment, food, and explorers to the Argentine Antarctic stations. Currently, the diesel-electric ship is completing its loading at the port of Buenos Aires and is expected on Sunday to head to the White Continent.

“We are very pleased with the work of the Russian vessel and its crew, which is not for the first time involved in our Antarctic campaign,” Rossi said.