As part of its policy of cooperation with regional partners, the Brazilian government is moving forward with the donation of Bell 412 and Bell Jet Ranger III helicopters to the Security Forces of Paraguay and the Armed Forces of Uruguay, respectively. The measure, authorized by the Brazilian National Congress and published in Brazil’s Official Gazette, provides for the transfer of aircraft belonging to the Federal Police and the Brazilian Navy, which are currently considered obsolete material within the inventory of Brazil’s security and armed forces.
According to the official provision, Paraguay will receive two Bell 412 Classic helicopters from the Aviation Command of the Federal Police, which will be assigned to the National Police and the National Anti-Drug Secretariat (SENAD), while Uruguay will incorporate two Bell Jet Ranger III helicopters originating from Brazilian Naval Aviation. The aircraft will be delivered in their current state of preservation, and the transportation costs will be borne by Brazil. This initiative strengthens military cooperation ties among Southern Cone nations, which in recent years have intensified links in the areas of defense, training, and logistical support.
In the case of Uruguay, the donation of the Jet Rangers is framed within a historical relationship between both navies. As early as 2013, the Brazilian Navy transferred an Esquilo AS355 F-2 helicopter to the Uruguayan Navy, allowing Uruguayan Naval Aviation to begin embarked operations aboard the ROU General Artigas and even participate in Antarctic missions. The arrival of the new Bell 206B-3 helicopters will strengthen training and coastal patrol capabilities, enabling the Navy to reach the ideal operational number of three aircraft of the same type, with direct benefits in maintenance, training, and availability.
Paraguay, for its part, continues to expand and incorporate new capabilities based on material donated by Brazil. In addition to the helicopters, the Paraguayan Army will receive six M108 105 mm self-propelled artillery vehicles, marking the incorporation of this type of weaponry for the first time in its history. These units, according to statements by the Commander of the Paraguayan Army, General Manuel Rodríguez, are in good operational condition and will provide a new doctrinal capability and tactical mobility. The package is completed with a 122-meter aluminum floating pontoon and 6×6 EE-11 Urutu armored vehicles, which will be progressively added to the country’s motorized fleet.
These transfers are part of the process of modernization and reorganization of the equipment in service with the Brazilian Armed Forces, aimed at optimizing resources and strengthening regional cooperation. In this context, Brazil reaffirms its role as a key actor in Southern Cone military integration, while Paraguay and Uruguay increase their operational capabilities through the incorporation of assets that enhance their autonomy, training, and ability to respond to emergencies and combined missions.
*Images used for illustrative purposes.
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