Russia and Iran discuss potential helicopter delivery

WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Russian and Iranian defense industry officials met to discuss the possible delivery of several Russian-made military helicopters.

In attendance were representatives from Russian state-owned Rostec Corporation, Russian Helicopters, and the Iran Aviation industries Organization, the state agency responsible for Iran's aviation industry. Russian Helicopters Deputy CEO Alexander Shcherbinin says Iran's economy has improved, and the upcoming lifting of international economic sanctions can accelerate its development.

"Given the existing highways infrastructure in the regions, demand for helicopters among various agencies, and Iran's potential, cooperation on the delivery of Russian-made helicopters is sure to expand," Shcherbinin said in a statement. "Russian Helicopters possesses the production capacity needed to meet Iran's needs for modern helicopters in the shortest possible time."

The helicopters being considered for delivery from Russia to Iran include the Ka-226T, designed to operate in hot climates, the Mi-171, which can be used for search and rescue missions and fire-fighting, and the multi-role Ka-3211BC helicopter, also used for search and rescue missions in addition to transporting cargo.

The discussion on delivery prospects comes as Russian Helicopters assists Iran in retrofitting a repair center for Mi-17 helicopters, and supplying it with helicopter parts. The Mi-17 helicopters are primarily used for transporting troops and cargo.