Peru Ministry of Defense seeks funds for firefighting equipment

The Peruvian Ministry of Defense is coordinating with the Ministry of Economy and Finance to secure approximately $1.5 million for the acquisition of 10 Bambi Bucket firefighting systems. These resources are intended for the Air Force's Air Group No. 3 to strengthen operational capabilities against forest fires.

The planned acquisition, to be conducted via direct emergency contracting, includes seven 3,410-liter systems for Mi-17-1B and Mi-171Sh helicopters, and three 1,230-liter systems for Bell 212/412 aircraft. This follows previous budgetary challenges where funds were reallocated to other programs.

Separately, the Peruvian Army is expected to receive 11 Cloudburst firefighting systems from New Zealand manufacturer IMS in early November. This equipment, acquired through JA2 Company Inc., will be integrated into the Army's Mi-17 fleet to enhance aerial firefighting capacity.