Slovenia has revised its current defense plan to acquire six additional multi-purpose helicopters and a C-27J Spartan tactical transport aircraft.
The amendment, approved by the government, aims to ensure that Ljubljana can properly address emerging security challenges.
The European nation already ordered one C-27J and associated services from Italian aviation firm Leonardo for 87.8 million euros ($96.4 million).
The additional acquisition would make Slovenia’s investment in tactical transport aircraft 159 million euros ($174.5 million).
The C-27J Spartan aircraft can transport up to 60 troops at a maximum speed of 602 kilometers (374 miles) per hour. It can perform short takeoffs and landings on snowy, sandy, and unprepared runways.
The Slovenian Ministry of Defence said the second Spartan under order will be used to fill gaps in case the first aircraft is unavailable due to maintenance.
Six New Helicopters
Slovenia plans to acquire half a dozen helicopters to replace its fleet of Bell 412 utility choppers.
The forthcoming procurement is estimated to be worth 195.2 million euros ($217 million).
The helicopters are expected to support the country’s special operations unit, perform cargo transport, and participate in combat search and rescue missions.
The defense ministry has not disclosed which multi-purpose helicopters it plans to purchase.
“The goal of the project is to ensure a higher operability and availability of the Slovenian military’s helicopter fleet by developing its air transport capabilities with medium transport and light multi-purpose helicopters,” it said.
New Defense Plan
Announced last month, Slovenia’s new defense procurement plan includes the acquisition of a German-made IRIS-T medium-range air defense system to protect its skies.
It will also purchase eight-wheel-drive vehicles in the next three years to support its land forces.