Russia’s Rosvertol attack helicopter producer said on Monday it is in talks with Algeria over exports of its Mi-28NE for delivery from 2012-2017.
“A commercial proposal has already been sent [to Algiers] and discussions will begin this year,” Rosvertol General Director Boris Slyusar said. “We hope to sign a contract for delivery in 2012-2017.”
Rosvertol is the attack helicopter arm of the state-owned Russian Helicopters holding company.
If successful, the deal will be the second export sale of the night-capable Mi-28NE, which is currently being introduced to the Russian armed forces. Venezuela ordered 10 in 2010, but the vehicles have not yet been delivered.
The Mi-28NE is a two-seat dedicated attack helicopter, equipped with a mast-mounted millimeter-wave fire control radar and advanced night vision optical systems.
The machine is armed with the Ataka anti-armor missile system.
Algeria already operates the Mi-25, an export derivative of the Russian forces Mi-24 attack helicopter.