With the presence of military authorities and the Ministry of Defense, the Argentine Army presented its new Bell 407 GXi mountain helicopters in the province of Mendoza. The 8th Mountain Army Aviation Section hosted the event, which also marked a milestone for the veteran Lama 315Bs, as the new aircraft formally replace them.
In his speech, Lieutenant General Carlos Presti, Chief of the Army General Staff, stated: “…this acquisition represents much more than just the addition of a weapons system. It is a firm and concrete step in the process of modernization and re-equipment of the Force… A long-awaited process that has always been driven by the Army with responsibility, with studies, with expert advice, showing seriousness and professionalism…”
He also emphasized that the arrival of the Bell 407 GXi “…marks the end of a successful cycle, that of the Lama 315B—an iconic helicopter that proved to be a noble and reliable asset, serving with distinction for almost five decades… The Lama left a deep mark on our Army Aviation, not only for its performance in strictly military settings, but also for its participation in numerous community support missions, particularly in the province of Mendoza…”
The incorporation of the Bell 407 GXi helicopters represents a significant technological leap for the Army and its aviation branch. This is a multi-purpose utility helicopter equipped with advanced avionics, capable of operating in the demanding geography of the Andes mountains. “…Its capabilities in transport, search and rescue, and general support make it a fundamental tool for enhancing the effectiveness and versatility of our operations, both in specific missions and in joint and combined efforts, as well as in cooperation with other state agencies…,” emphasized Lieutenant General Presti.
The Chief of Staff also recognized the officers, technicians, and advisors involved in the studies, evaluations, and negotiations that made the acquisition of the Bell 407 GXi helicopters possible, highlighting that “…this quiet work has allowed us to take this historic step…”
“…We are convinced this is the right path. We also know we cannot walk it alone. That is why sustained support from higher levels is essential—such as the Joint Chiefs of Staff under Brigadier General Xavier Isaac, and the Ministry of Defense, led by Minister Petri—so that our vision can be translated into concrete actions and the appropriate procedures carried out with the state agencies involved in the acquisition process…,” concluded Lieutenant General Presti.
The addition of the Bell 407 GXi helicopters was also highlighted by Brigadier General Xavier Isaac, who congratulated all personnel who worked tirelessly and diligently. The head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff expressed his satisfaction at seeing new capabilities being added to the Armed Forces. He also offered a brief but essential reflection: “…this is how weapons systems should be retired—with a seamless platform replacement ready to take flight… To me, this is a defining image: the way we must recover and enhance capabilities…”
For his part, Defense Minister Luis Petri praised the efforts of the personnel of the 8th Mountain Army Aviation Section, “…after decades of service in support of the population…” He also underscored the long journey to replacing the Lama helicopter system, and the need for the Armed Forces to be equipped with modern and capable assets. The Minister also acknowledged the Armed Forces’ recent role in civil protection operations, particularly the deployment in Bahía Blanca.
“This aircraft acquisition must mark the beginning of the Army Aviation’s modernization and re-equipment”
Colonel Sergio Esteban Di Clemente, head of the Army Aviation Directorate, in addition to thanking the support provided by the Ministry of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Army General Staff, also emphasized in his speech that the addition of the Bell 407 GXis “…must mark the beginning of the modernization and re-equipment of Army Aviation, with the best tools to fulfill the military mission, and to always be present in supporting the community—as was the case during wildfires and floods…”
Di Clemente gave a brief historical overview of the Army Aviation’s relationship with the Lama and its performance in the Argentine Andes. “…On February 12, 1976, six Lama 315B helicopters arrived—considered at the time a technological leap, especially designed for high-mountain operations. In 1990, within a framework of restructuring and redeployment, the 8th Army Aviation Section was created—now known as the 8th Mountain Army Aviation Section. On April 9, 1991, the first Lama AE-386 arrived. Since then, and for almost 34 years, these aircraft have supported this unique geographical area, operating alongside other armed forces, as well as regional agencies and local citizens…”
“…These noble and aging helicopters never failed to meet any request made of them… (however) the world moves on, technology advances, aircraft age. A replacement was more than necessary. For that reason, in 2012, joint studies began to identify an aircraft capable of meeting the demands of military operations in our mountainous terrain… After much effort and work, it was concluded that the Bell 407 GXi was the most suitable to replace our noble Lama helicopters…,” Di Clemente added.
Finally, the head of the Army Aviation Directorate paid tribute to Army Aviation Brigadier General Ángel María Zuloaga, stating: “…with his spirit and courage, he inspires all members of this small Army Aviation unit, and with this modern aircraft, they will emulate that aviation pioneer, upholding the honor, valor, and commitment that have always defined all who are part of Army Aviation, and who operate daily across all geographical environments of our country…”
You may also like: The Argentine Air Force incorporates new DART Simulators for F-16 pilot training
