Sanctions Included: Will Kazakhstan Buy Russian Helicopters?

Kazakhstan is considering possibly supplying helicopters and light aircraft from the Russian republic of Buryatia, Orda reports.

The plant that produces this equipment is under sanctions.

During the first visit of Kazakhstan's Ambassador to Russia Dauren Abayev to Buryatia on February 11, discussions covered potential cooperation across multiple sectors.

While Kazakhstan has already received 11,000 breeding cattle from the region, talks extended to aviation equipment.

The projects that we are considering for cooperation are, of course, our aircraft plant, helicopter supplies, including new models of light aircraft. Our guests are also interested in the products of the pulp and cardboard mill, the instrument-making association, medical products, artificial leather, which helps to quickly heal extensive wounds, and other areas, said Alexey Tsydenov.

The discussed aviation facility is the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant, which accounts for approximately 25% of Buryatia's industrial revenue.

The plant, part of Russian Helicopters Holding, produces various helicopter types ranging from medical to military applications.

The plant and its parent company face sanctions from the EU, USA, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Australia.

The sanctions are due to their helicopters' reported use in Ukraine by Russian forces. This raises significant concerns about potential secondary sanctions risk for Kazakhstan if cooperation proceeds.

Orda.kz will send an official inquiry to Kazakhstan's Ministry of Trade and Integration.

Original Author: Nikita Drobny