The Peruvian Air Force has reported that it has recovered and modernized one of its Mil Mi-35P attack and transport helicopters. Initially, the aircraft underwent maintenance by personnel from Air Group No. 2, before being transported to Lima for modernization work carried out by the Electronics Service (SELEC) and Maintenance Service (SEMAN).
According to the details provided by the Peruvian Air Force, the initial recovery of the Mi-35P involved major component repairs. Once in service, the helicopter was moved to the capital city of Peru to receive the modernization of its navigation and flight equipment.
In the video released by the Peruvian Air Force, it can be observed that the selected avionics belong to the Garmin range. The modernized Mi-35P received a multifunction touch screen from the G500H series, a digital altimeter GI 275, and a GPS/COMMS/MFD system GTN 650/635Xi. The Air Force also reported that the update included an alternate intercom, and part of the configuration was extended to the gunner’s station.
The Peruvian Air Force introduced the Mi-35P attack helicopters in April 2011 to enhance its capabilities in the fight against narco-terrorism in the then Valle de los Ríos Apurímac y Ene (VRAE). The acquisition process also included six Mi-171Sh Hip H transport helicopters. The total cost of the operation, including Russian assistance and technical support, amounted to USD 107.9 million.
Currently, the Peruvian Air Force operates a mixed fleet of Mi-25 Hind E and Mi-35P Hind F helicopters. One of the main external differences between the two models is the fixed double cannon Gsh-30K, which is mounted to the starboard side of the Mi-35P cabin.
Illustrative cover image. Credits: FAP
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