Not only does the Russian military order more helicopters, but it provides an advance payment

Published: 12/6/1999

The Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) is reported to have made an advance payment – the first in ten years – to the Mil helicopter plant, for the upgrade of Mi-8s and Mi-24s that are currently involved in activities in Chechnya. This follows on the back of some fairly substantial increases in orders for the helicopters announced in the last ten days. The helicopters are apparently being equipped with modern targeting equipment enabling the detection of targets and firing of missiles in both difficult weather conditions, and at night. Alexey Samusenko, First Deputy General Designer of Mil, would not reveal the amount of advance but acknowledged that it was sufficient to cover wage arrears for six months of 1998 and part of 1999. In addition, the plant has been able to pay its utility bills and to make contributions to the pension and other social funds. Associated articles www.concise.org 24th November 1999

Article ID: 1172