The Hungarian Defence Forces need 40 new helicopters
The Hungarian Defense Forces plan to buy 40 new helicopters in the coming years said the Chief of Staff of the Hungarian Defense Forces Tibor Benkő to InfoRádió, adding that the twelve Russian made Mi-24 helicopters currently undergoing comprehensive modernization in Russia will be in service until 2025.
The Hungarian Defense Forces have already purchased two transport planes, which will be in service this spring. The aircraft are capable of carrying military personnel and their individual equipment, as well as smaller supplies; they will also be equipped with capabilities to carry out air rescue missions.
But we need larger aircraft as well, which is capable of carrying large military supplies and equipment and fitted with aerial refuelling capability said the chief of staff.
The overhauled Russian made combat helicopters will be in service until 2025; after that the Hungarian Defence Forces have to acquire new ones that can be used for training and combat missions, as well as transportation of cargo and troops.
The Hungarian Army needs about 40 new helicopters according to current calculations said Tibor Benkő. The army will define the parameters and capabilities of the new helicopters; the type, the brand, and the cost of them are decided by the government – he added.
Hungary is not obliged to buy military equipment exclusively from NATO member states; for every NATO country the existence of the desired capabilities is the primary consideration when acquire new equipment the chief of staff said.
photo: Károly Árvai / Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister
Source: MTI – hungarianambiance.com
Why waste time and money. Either go full throttle and purchase what the whole defense force requires, proper helicopters, jets, tanks and supply vehicles, or just produce a nuke. Probably cheaper and warrants less emphasis on military numbers and equipment, plus it provides a deterrent in Central Europe, which again, as history has proven, Hungary has to be the leader.
The Hungarian armed forces need more than just 40 helicopters. The current force (29,700) is inadequate to deter aggression or to defend the country. There needs to be a real (properly trained and armed) reserve force. The current proposal for territorial forces is not adequate. Too many old out of shape men. Hungary needs several hundred modern tanks. The current armored personnel carries, which are now 30 years old, need to be replaced. They need self propelled artillery. The Air Force needs to be increased to at least 3 combat squadrons (48 planes). There is a need for small arms that are compatible with other NATO countries. they need drones and other equipment.
AC Horvath, you are right. A proper standing army of 20-30 000 properly equipped and a reserve of 60 000 continually cycled. A one year term for young people is not a bad thing nor is compulsory 2 week annual refresher courses. Proper and professional instruction. Young people have to take an interest in their own country’s defense. Bring back some pride in its own military.
Add to the equipment drones. A few hundred costs less than a fighter and can do so much more.