In a significant move to bolster military cooperation in Latin America, Rosoboronexport, the state-owned Russian arms export enterprise, has announced plans to establish a new maintenance and repair center dedicated to Russian military helicopters in Peru. The initiative was revealed by Alexander Mikheev, the company’s general director, who emphasized that this facility will cater to the Mi helicopter series currently operated by the Russian Armed Forces, their allies, and former Soviet Union states.
Mikheev highlighted the strategic importance of this infrastructure, stating, “This infrastructure facility, built under the ROSOBORONEXPORT contract, will open in the short term and will be able to ensure airworthiness maintenance of Russian-made helicopters from all Latin American countries operating our equipment.” While he provided insights into the overarching goals of the center, specific details regarding its geographical location and operational particulars remain undisclosed.
As part of a broader initiative to deepen military ties with Peru, Rosoboronexport plans to present the service center framework to the Peruvian government amid the introduction of an array of Russian military equipment. This initiative includes a defense exhibit scheduled for April, which will showcase a diverse range of Moscow’s aircraft, including the locally produced Mi-17 Hip helicopter, the advanced MiG-35 Fulcrum and Su-35 Flanker fighter jets, the Il-76 Candid transport aircraft, reconnaissance and strike UAVs from the Orlan and Orion family, as well as Kub loitering munitions.
In addition, Rosoboronexport aims to highlight an array of support capabilities such as medical equipment, engineering solutions, and medical evacuation services. For ground operations, the exhibition will feature advanced military hardware including the T-90 Proryv main battle tank, the Flox 120-mm self-propelled howitzer/mortar system, the Tornado multiple rocket launcher, and the Kornet anti-tank guided missile, equipped with a new warhead designated Bulat. A range of small arms and close combat solutions will also be on display.
Mikheev underscored the significance of the upcoming SITDEF PERU 2025 event, stating, “We expect to strengthen ties between our countries, discuss current and future joint projects, showcase modern Russian weapons, as well as disaster response equipment and machinery.” He also indicated that discussions would encompass joint and licensed production of Russian small arms, land force equipment, air defense assets, UAVs, and counter-UAV electronic warfare technologies within the region.
This initiative marks an important step in enhancing Russia’s military presence and partnerships within Latin America, reflecting a growing trend of international defense collaboration.
