The Mexican Ministry of Defense has signed a contract with Trans-Ce Cargo for the overhaul and extension of the service life of 7 Russian military transport helicopters in service with the Mexican Air Force, Defensa writes.
The Mexican Air Force's fleet of Mi-17 helicopters is in a deplorable state. It operates 18 Mi-17-1B military transport aircraft, which are part of the 303rd Aviation Squadron based in Santa Lucia. The operation of most of the helicopters has been suspended due to the lack of spare parts and the expiration of airworthiness certificates.
The contract is estimated at $56.5 million. At the same time, Trans-Ce Cargo will act as an intermediary. When applying for the tender, the company claimed to have a repair license from "Russian Helicopters". Later, Trans-Ce Cargo presented letters from the Russian JSC "National Aviation Service Company" and the Novosibirsk Aircraft Repair Plant.
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