Thanks to a sustained work in maintenance, spare parts procurement and resources recovery, Colombian National Army will progressively refurbish its MI-17 helicopter fleet, with which it is projected to close 2025 with eleven aircraft in operation.
This maintenance process has led to the procurement, repair and replacement of vital aircraft components. The operation is being carried out with the technical support of VSC, a specialized United States company, which works in coordination with the personnel of the 32nd Army Aviation Brigade Support and Sustainment.
Currently, Colombian National Army has five MI-17 helicopters in operation. By the middle of the year, the incorporation of three more is expected: one that is about to fly; another, in the flight test phase, and a third, which continues in maintenance. This is complemented by three additional aircraft whose distribution is scheduled for December. Thus, by the end of 2025, it is projected to have eleven helicopters in operation.
These aircraft are essential for supplying in hard-to-reach areas, thanks to their large cargo capacity that leads them to transport up to 24 fully equipped soldiers. They in the same way play a key role in humanitarian aid missions, evacuations, logistical transport and forest fire fighting.
During the period when several MI-17s were out of service, UH-60 and Bell helicopters took over the essential missions, working to ensure the continuity of the military operation.
However, the progressive return of the MI-17s represents a significant strengthening of Colombian National Army's strategic resources.
"This process represents a technical recovery and a key step to strengthen the military operation's capacity. The MI-17s continue to be a strategic pillar to fulfill the mission in the national territory," said Colonel Julián Ferney Rincón Ricaurte, commander of the 32nd Army Aviation Brigade.
Through these operations, Colombian National Army reaffirms its commitment to strengthening its strategic resources, protecting Colombians and fulfilling its constitutional mission. This development of the military operation consolidates army presence in the national territory and works for a timely, effective and sustained response.
Source: Press – National Army Aviation
