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Slovak Defence Ministry submits a request for a price quotation for 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters to U.S. Government

Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic

06.07.2023

A request for a price quotation for the delivery of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters along with the precise specification of requirements for the AH-1Z Viper and associated accessories, AGM-114 Hellfire II air-to-ground missiles, initial logistical support, training for pilots and technicians has now been submitted to the U.S. Government by the Slovak Defence Ministry, which has moved another step closer to accepting the U.S. Government's advantageous offer to strengthen Slovakia's defence potential.

As Defence Minister Martin Sklenár explained, what is to follow next is a review of our request along with other time-consuming arrangements, adding: "Given the complexity of the processes and previous experience, our American partner announced that due to the specifics of the project, which will involve returning the already produced helicopters in storage back into active service rather than producing new ones, it is necessary to expect longer periods for individual stages." He continued: "In this phase, our goal was to specify the requirements of the Slovak Armed Forces in as much detail as possible to increase the chances of quick progress and move on to the next step towards the delivery of the U.S. price quote."

Before the final price quotation is handed over to Slovakia, a team of U.S. SMEs must consider individual areas of the package (logistics, ammunition, maintenance, training, etc.) and review the condition of the helicopters and spare parts. Only then can the price offer and the formal notification to the U.S. Congress be prepared. After Congressional approval and the signing of the contract, the U.S. side will start refurbishing the helicopters and installing the required systems in them.

Considering the length of the processes involved, the delivery of the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters to Slovakia is expected to take three years. The value of the U.S. offer for the package is worth more than $1bn. However, based on its negotiations and agreement with the USA, the SVK MOD will pay about $340m over the course of 3-4 years from the planned Defence budget.