The Tawazun Economic Council has announced at the Dubai Airshow that it has signed a letter of intent to purchase 100 VRT500 helicopters from aerospace company Aeroter for €216.9 million ($248.2m). Deliveries of the helicopters, which will be used by the government, are expected by the end of 2023.

“We are pleased to close this contract for VRT’s single light engine helicopter, which is characterised by various design advantages in terms of safety, performance and cost-effectiveness, to meet the customers’ expectations,” Abdulla Al Jaabri, deputy chairman of Aeroter, said.

The agreement also entails the setting up of a helicopter service centre in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with an Emirati company, Ahmed Al Harmoodi, chief acquisition management officer of Tawazun, said.

“Aeroter is currently engaged in talks with a number of national companies on forming a strategic partnership to operate and manage the centre.”

Tawazun was formed in 1992 and has supported the creation of more than 111 companies and investment vehicles in 12 sectors. It now serves as a catalyst for economic growth and the development of the UAE defence and security industry.

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