As mentioned repeatedly by this author in previous articles about the maintenance of the Mil Mi-17 helicopters of Russian origin belonging to the Colombian Armed Forces, finding the necessary suppliers and spare parts was merely a matter of political will and allowing experts to make decisions free from personal interests.
Yesterday, the Colombian Minister of Defense finally gave the green light for the essential contract, enabling the maintenance and overhaul of the 18 aircraft, most of which are currently inactive either due to lack of maintenance or operational safety concerns. Regarding the signing date of the contract, Defense Minister Velásquez stated: “We hope to have the maintenance contract signed this year” … “We carried out a review process of companies, particularly in the Americas, that had this capability or provided maintenance services for Mi-17 aircraft in other countries; through this process, we identified two companies for the maintenance work.”
The contract value was also clarified in the statements, which is unusual given the typical secrecy surrounding such matters: “Just last week, we were in a meeting reviewing the final details of contracting one of these companies. The resources initially appropriated, amounting to 270 billion pesos, were reduced during the general budget cuts in June and July, down to 170 billion pesos. However, with an additional allocation, we expect to reach approximately the originally budgeted figure,” the minister emphasized.
Thus, the ministry finally acted within its mandate, acknowledged the international reality, and confirmed that the excuses previously presented were at least inadequate. Yes, the maintenance contract could indeed be secured. Moreover, the contract value will be approximately 62 million dollars, with a minor caveat mentioned by the minister himself: there is a shortfall of around 23 million dollars, the funding for which is still uncertain. Considering the government’s lack of financing, the unnecessary increase in operating expenses, and the need for a new tax reform, this situation understandably raises reasonable suspicion.
The need for Mi-17 helicopters in Colombia is evident, as their capabilities and performance far surpass those of other models currently in service with the Armed Forces. It is worth remembering that during recent emergencies involving forest fires, the country had to resort to hiring civilian helicopters, which coincidentally were also Russian-made Mi-17s.
Let us hope the official’s words come to fruition, that the contract is signed, the total funds are allocated, and we can once again see these vital resources soaring through Colombian skies for emergency response, troop transport, resupply, and the execution of operations throughout the territory.
Photographs used for illustrative purposes.
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