U.S. to Provide Black Hawk Helicopters to Ecuador, Complications Arise Over the Mi-17 Helicopter Transfer to Ukraine
The USA is set to provide Ecuador with an unspecified quantity of UH-60A/L Black Hawk helicopters, replacing the Mi-17 helicopters intended for transfer to Ukraine. This exchange falls under agreements inked between the USA and Ecuador in January 2024, aimed at replacing Soviet weaponry in Ecuador’s arsenal with modern American-made equipment intended for counter-guerrilla operations against local drug cartels, Infodefensa reports.
However, a notable complication arises from the condition of the Mi-17 helicopters slated for transfer from the Ecuadorian Air Force’s inventory. According to reports from the Infodefensa portal, only one helicopter remains airworthy, while the others are only suitable for spare parts. This development is part of a broader narrative wherein Ecuador affirmed its commitment to transferring BM-21 Grad rocket launchers, Osa-AKM SAM systems and Mi-17 helicopters to Ukraine.
Read more: Ecuador Considers Sending Old Weapons to Ukraine, russia Bans Banana Imports
There is no definitive timeline for the transfer. On one hand, the familiarity of the equipment to Ukrainian forces offers a logistical advantage, eliminating the need for additional infrastructure. On the other hand, concerns arise regarding the time and resources required to refurbish and integrate this equipment into Ukrainian military operations, given Ecuador’s acknowledgment that the intended transfer constitutes scrap metal in its current state. There exists a tangible risk that Ukraine may receive little more than a collection of “donor parts”.
This dilemma prompts speculation about whether Ukraine would be better served by immediate access to Western equipment through US assistance. Notably, Ukraine already possesses experience with Black Hawk helicopters.
Read more: Ecuador Might Have Provided the Mi-17 For Ukraine, Although This Country Denies Everything