Slovakia will buy 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and AGM-114 Hellfire II missiles worth over $1bn, but will pay only $340m because of supplies of MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine

Slovakia will arm itself with American AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and Hellfire missiles. This was officially announced by the European country's Ministry of Defence.

Here's What We Know

Slovakia made a request to buy 12 attack helicopters and AMG-114 Hellfire II air-to-ground missiles. The number of missiles is not specified. The request also includes logistical support and training.

After 24 February 2022, Slovakia transferred air defence systems Kub and MiG-29 fighters to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. For this reason, it will receive a large discount from the U.S. for the purchase of missiles and helicopters.

Specifically, the order should exceed $1 billion, but Slovakia will pay only $340 million. Deliveries will take about three years. If the deal is approved, Slovakia will receive old but upgraded helicopters.

The manufacturer of the AH-1Z Viper is Bell. The helicopter is equipped with new electro-optical systems and avionics. It is also worth noting that the Viper can launch AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles.

Source: Slovakian Ministry of Defence