Misajlovski: First two new helicopters due by the end of the year

Defence Minister Vlado Misajlovski said that the first two new helicopters for the Army are expected to arrive by the end of the year, speaking at a ceremony in Ohrid marking Army Day on 18 August.

Addressing the public, Misajlovski outlined the ongoing modernization programme and a list of procurements under way, and warned that the character of conventional warfare has changed.

"Light armored vehicles JLTV and 'Stryker' have already been delivered, the artillery systems 'Boran' and most of the 'Mistral 3' air defence systems. By the end of the year the first two new helicopters are expected to be delivered. It is more than clear that conventional warfare has changed and to be ready to respond, it is necessary to make an adaptation in perception and defence," he said, and added that after a long period of inactivity the Pilot Training Centre will be put into operation.

Ongoing purchases and infrastructure works

Misajlovski listed additional areas of investment: artillery systems, air-defence means, unmanned systems and anti-armor capabilities, cyber‑protection equipment, aviation support assets and communications systems. Several types of equipment have already reached the Army.

He said that, alongside equipment procurement, the Ministry will invest in improving barracks infrastructure, with planned investments in the coming period exceeding 12 million euros. The minister also announced a forthcoming legal measure for professional soldiers who have reached the age of 45 and said wages will be increased from next year.

Misajlovski framed the measures as necessary adaptations to new security realities and as steps to strengthen the armed forces’ readiness and training.

Photo: Ministerstvo za odbrana