Brazil Reveals Russian Helicopter Purchases

In an unexpected move, Brazil has ordered 12 Mil Mi-35M attack helicopters from Russia, which has already supplied similar gunships to Venezuela. Brazil revealed that it had bought 12 attack helicopters from Russia on October 23, after a visit here by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev Wednesday. The deal, which had not previously been announced, appeared in a memorandum of understanding signed by the Russian leader and Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva. "The parties recognize as a promissory accord ... some activities outlined during the celebration of the supply of the 12 Mi-35M helicopters for the Brazilian Air Force," part of the text read. Brazil and Russia "declare their conviction of the mutual benefits that can come from the continuation of the cooperation started with the negotiations relative to the fleet of attack helicopters." The Brazilian government confirmed the purchase in a joint statement released after Medvedev's departure. Medvedev signed accords to deepen military cooperation with Lula in Brazil earlier, but they did not close concrete agreements. After the meeting the Russian president traveled to Venezuela -- which has adopted Cuba's role as the leading anti-American voice in the region -- as Russian and Venezuelan warships conduct joint military maneuvers. (ends) EDITORS NOTE: The Russian Presidents office said, in a Nov.