Argentina’s Army, Air Force to split new order of Bell Textron helos

SANTIAGO, Chile — Argentina has ordered six 407 GXi helicopters from Bell Textron Canada, representatives of the country’s Defense Ministry and the Armed Forces Joint Staff announced Wednesday in Buenos Aires.

The helo will replace part of Argentina’s aging fleet of French-made SA 315B Lama light helicopters, which the Army and Air Force have used for 45 years in mountain-rescue and liaison roles. Three of the 407 GXi helos will go to the Army, and the other three to the Air Force.

The deal is worth $38 million, military sources in Buenos Aires told Defense News on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the contract.

The original requirement, issued almost a decade ago, was for 12 helicopters. This latest contract does not include options for additional aircraft.

Deliveries are to start in the second half of 2023.

“This is the beginning of the so-long-awaited replacement of the Lamas,” said Luis Piñeiro, an independent military analyst based in Buenos Aires. “These helicopters are not only necessary to support military deployments in mountainous Andean areas, but also perform important tasks in community support and rescue of civilian mountain climbers.”

More In The Americas

New US Space Force jammers aim to disrupt China’s SATCOM signals

The Remote Modular Terminals, which disrupt adversary satellites by "yelling in their ear," as one official put it, are cleared for initial fielding,

Space Force must grow to counter China and Russia, lawmaker says

House Armed Services Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Ala., said the service is not sized to meet increasing threats from China and Russia.

SpaceX launches rapid response GPS mission

The effort, dubbed Rapid Response Trailblazer, was meant to demonstrate the ability to quickly plan and launch a mission in around six months.

Space Command strategy aims to boost commercial role in operations

The updated strategy, approved in November, focuses on SPACECOM’s core tasks and how commercial space capabilities fit within those areas.

ULA eyes annual mods to turn rocket stage into space interceptor

The fast-moving vehicle would be highly maneuverable and could be used to tow satellites or for counterspace missions, ULA CEO Tory Bruno told reporters.