Two brand new, multi-purpose helicopters Bell 412 Epi, intended for the aviation of Montenegro arrived in Montenegro today. This represents the most important equipment of our Army ever since we regained independence and it is a confirmation of Montenegro’s determination to strengthen its capacities within NATO.
“On the occasion of NATO accession, we said that, in the group of the most developed and most powerful, we would be responsible member and strengthen the capacities of our Army in accordance with the needs of collective responsibility. With such approach, we are showing responsibility for the comfort and safety of our citizens, but also of our investors, tourists and anybody who comes to visit Montenegro for whatever reason”, said the Prime Minister Duško Marković.
The provision of three modern helicopters cost around 30 million EUR. The air jets will be engaged in the searching and rescue missions, as well as for the various kinds of medical evacuations. The Prime Minister also reminded us of the visible advantages of NATO membership.
“Economic growth in 2017 amounted 4,3%. Growth in foreign direct investments contributed to its growth in 2018. Since we entered NATO, number of tourists coming from Member States increased by 25%. Therefore, this is a great opportunity to show to all those who doubted and sabotaged our Euro – Atlantic commitment that they were wrong”, said Marković.
Protection of our sovereignty and totality of Montenegrin territory is guaranteed by the most powerful and most developed states of nowadays.
Chief of General Staff, Brigadier General Dragutin Dakić, said that the most important equipment of the Army of Montenegro was provided today.
“This project of helicopter provision is very important and now the conditions for its implementation exist. We chose the type and the model of helicopters which will respond to security demands. These helicopters will improve the mobility of our units, reconnaissance skills and overall transport capacities of our Army”, said General Dakić.
The celebration was attended by many guests, Minister of Defense, representatives of diplomatic corps and other high officials.
Helicopters were delivered in Montenegro from Prague where they were assembled after they had been brought in pieces from the USA. Lieutenant colonel, Nenad Pavlović, and Major Darko Pavlović, flew the helicopters on the way to Montenegro.
