The initial contract with USA, supplying 12 helicopters was signed in 2019
The Czech Air Force is modernising its fleet of combat and transport helicopters, according to representatives from Bell during the NATO Days 2023 exhibition, as reported by Sarbaz.kz with reference to texton.com.
The company noted the delivery of three AH-1Z Vipers and one UH-1Y Venom. The total order consists of four Vipers and eight Venoms, with a value of USD 633 million.
The initial contract with the United States for the delivery of 12 helicopters was signed in 2019. Under the terms of the contract, Bell, in collaboration with Pinnacle Solutions, will train pilots, crew leaders, and provide technical maintenance support. The new helicopters are intended to replace Russian-made Mi-2, Mi-8, Mi-24V/17/35 helicopters.
Upon the completion of the delivery schedule, the Czech Air Force will have a renewed fleet comprising a total of 20 H-1 helicopters from Bell Texton.
The first units of the helicopters received were showcased at the NATO Days 2023 exhibition. Prior to this, Czech Air Force pilots, crew members, and aviation technicians underwent training in California, USA. Additionally, Bell, in collaboration with Flight Safety International, installed an AH-1Z dome simulator at the Czech Air Force base in Nemešte.
AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom represent a new generation of specialized attack and multi-role combat helicopters from Bell. These models offer several advantages, including compact size, high speed, maneuverability, and versatility during strategic operations. They are equipped with digital cockpits featuring large LCD panels, automatic flight control systems, and inertial navigation.
It should be noted that the purchase of both types of helicopters will ensure the full combat readiness of the country's Air Force.