US Approves Bell 412EP Helicopters Sale to Argentina

The United States has authorized a $80 million sale of Bell 412EP helicopters to Argentina, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said on Wednesday.

"The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Argentina for Bell 412EP helicopters and associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated cost of $80 million," a DSCA release stated.

The United States has been increasing its military spending with similar deals to European, Asian and Persian Gulf states in recent weeks as part of efforts to boost the defenses of its allies worldwide.

"The proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by providing Argentina with air mobility capabilities to support various missions, including humanitarian assistance and peacekeeping," the release noted.

Argentina will use the aircraft for search and rescue operations, humanitarian aid, peacekeeping efforts, and other missions, according to the release.

The number of helicopters and delivery timeframe was not specified in the release.