US approves sale of Bell 412 helicopters to Zambia

In a notice issued to the US Congress on January 13, the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said the contract also includes the supply, to Zambia, of radio communication and navigation systems, weather radar and transponder capabilities as well as qualification and transition training for pilots and maintenance crews.

In addition, Bell Textron will also provide, in-country contractor field support services, programme management reviews, technical assistance, aviation ground support systems as well as spares and repairs among other deliverables.

“The proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping improve the security of an important partner that continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in South Central Africa,” the DSCA stated.

“The proposed sale will improve Zambia’s capability to conduct peacekeeping (operations), regional security, disaster response and humanitarian missions over long distances and in non-standard weather conditions. Zambia will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.”

The acquisition will be funded by the DSCA through the foreign military sales (FMS) programme. Although the number was not disclosed, the sale will add more Bell power to the Zambian Air Force, which commissioned two new Bell 412 attack helicopters to its fleet.