Turkey is aggressively lobbying to give T-129 attack helicopters to Pakistan to replace its aging AH-1F fleet and is prepared to agree to generous terms with cash-strapped Pakistan to do so, according to Turkish mediareports.
The T-129 attack helicopter is a coproduction of the Turkish aerospace industries and a European consortium. However, the US could sink the deal and make a counter offer of helicopter gunships to Pakistan that could be too good to refuse.
According to Defence News, Turkey made its latest push during Nawaz Sharif’s September 16-18 visit to Turkey for the third high level Cooperation Council meeting. He was given a demonstration of the T-129’s capabilities and a potential deal was discussed.
Turkish officials confirmed talks have “matured to a certain extent,” and Turkey remains committed to any possible deal, not only for financial benefits but also potential strategic gains. “We see that both countries are keen to cooperate,” said one senior procurement official in Ankara. “We have a longer-term vision over any deal. We do not aim to win just one foreign contract but also view spillover benefits for the local industry. The Pakistani market may win international recognition for the T-129 and pave the way for future contracts.”
A US industry source in Ankara said a US export licence for the T-129’s engine would be critical. “This may require complex deliberations in Washington, involving many industrial and political parameters,” he said. Nevertheless, Turkey hopes the T-129 will be an export success.
In remarks carried by Turkish daily Today’s Zaman, Turkey’s procurement chief, Murad Bayar, said on September 23 that the T-129 attack helicopter “had strong export potential”.
The T-129 has been going through acceptance tests before deliveries for the Turkish military. Officials expect the first delivery to be made within the next few weeks. “We may complete the delivery of the first nine helicopters by the end of the year,” Bayar said. “After these helicopters make their way into the Turkish inventory, I believe they will have strong chances for export.”
Turkey angers US by offering helicopters to Pakistan
