Afghanistan Interested In Buying Mi-17,Mi-35 Helicopters From Russia

Afghanistan is likely to buy Russian Mi-17 and Mi-35 helicopters for the Air Force.

Afghan National Security Adviser Hanif Atmar is planning to agree on the purchase of Russian helicopters for the country's Air Force during his upcoming Moscow visit, the press service was quoted as saying by Sputnik Sunday.

"One of the major aims of the visit is to purchase Mi-17 and Mi-35helicopters for Afghan Air Force," the press service said in a statement, adding that Kabul is expected to negotiate maintenance and repair as well.

During the visit, which is set to kick off on July 25, Atmar is expected to meet with Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev.

Broader political and security cooperation, as well as bilateral anti-terror and anti-drug strategies are likely to be on agenda of the talks as well, the statement said.