Serbia and Bosnia face scrutiny over helicopter procurement delays

Political and investigative scrutiny has emerged regarding helicopter procurement processes in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In Serbia, the Srbija Centar (SRCE) party has called on the Ministry of Defense to release the contract details for the acquisition of 11 used Mi-35P helicopters from Cyprus. The party is seeking clarification on the total cost, the specific Serbian weaponry provided in exchange, and the expenses required for the fleet's overhaul. Concerns have been raised regarding missed delivery deadlines and the fact that several aircraft remain at the Utva factory in Pančevo for repairs, despite the aircrafts' projected service life expiring this year.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Sarajevo Canton has yet to take possession of a Bell 412EPX helicopter valued at approximately 35.5 million KM. Reports indicate that the Zenica-based supplier, Shot d.o.o., has allegedly failed to pay required taxes and customs duties, preventing the transfer of ownership. The contract has undergone four amendments due to delays in delivery and payment, with an initial advance of 12.5 million KM already paid to the supplier.