With the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI), Bell Textron and the Government of Ukraine have taken a new step forward in the potential purchase of new Bell AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters. The preliminary agreement aims to explore opportunities for industrial cooperation and technology transfer, within the framework of a possible acquisition under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
In addition to covering the AH-1Z Viper, the documents signed between the company and the Ukrainian government also mention the potential sale of UH-1Y Venom tactical helicopters. If subsequent negotiations move forward and the U.S. government gives its approval, the LOI would represent the first formal step enabling the Ukrainian Armed Forces to acquire a fleet of proven combat and transport aircraft, currently in service with the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC).
Ukraine’s interest in the AH-1Z Viper is not new. Since at least 2022, following the start of the Russian invasion, Kyiv began evaluating options to modernize its attack helicopter fleet. As the conflict deepened, in September 2024 — after Slovakia confirmed the suspension of its own Viper acquisition project — Ukraine resumed talks with Bell to study the potential purchase of a batch of 12 units, which has now led to the signing of the Letter of Intent.
In its statement, Bell Textron emphasized that it will work with the U.S. government to ensure the supply of helicopters through the FMS program, providing logistical support, maintenance, and training. “We are confident that the H-1s can play a vital role in the development of Ukraine’s defense capabilities, providing a much-needed upgrade while strengthening current Ukrainian air support,” said Mike Schloesser, Managing Director of Bell.
The AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom are two of the most representative platforms in the H-1 family. Designed to operate together, they share approximately 85% of their components, simplifying maintenance, reducing operating costs, and enhancing interoperability between attack and utility versions. Both helicopters are built for expeditionary operations, close air support, armed escort, and tactical transport missions in high-threat environments.
If the deal is finalized, Ukraine would become the first operator of the AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom helicopters in Eastern Europe, marking a qualitative leap in its combat aviation and tactical transport capabilities. This move aligns with the modernization programs launched by its Armed Forces since 2022, which include the gradual transition to Western-origin platforms — a process already underway with the Ukrainian Air Force.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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