On Tuesday, the government supported the decision to acquire three medium-class helicopters to enhance the capabilities of the State Border Guard.
The planned expenses will be covered by loans allocated through the European Security Action Fund (SAFE).
According to the terms of SAFE, the contract for the purchase of helicopters is expected to be concluded by May 30 of this year, with delivery scheduled for 2028 and 2029, the Ministry of the Interior of Latvia reported.
Interior Minister Rihards Kozlovskis noted that the helicopters will be equipped for border security, as well as for search and rescue operations, extinguishing forest fires, medical transportation and evacuation, and other tasks.
Additionally, after delivery, these helicopters will be able to be used for transporting soldiers and officers.
For 80 million euros, the republic will receive not only the helicopters but also training for pilots and maintenance personnel, as well as technical maintenance for the first two years.
As reported, Latvia plans to use a loan of 3.49 billion euros from the SAFE fund in the coming years to purchase armored vehicles, air defense systems, and for other purposes.
