Media: Poland transfers non-functional helicopters to Ukraine

Poland has reportedly handed over a batch of non-functional helicopters, including Mi-8 and Bell 412-HP models, to the Ukrainian Interior Ministry, with the aircraft intended only for use as spare parts for operational vehicles. 

Citing sources from Russian security services, these helicopters are largely unusable in their current condition and will be dismantled for parts to support other aircraft, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

The transfer is said to be a strategic move for Poland, allowing the country to offload outdated and non-functional equipment while receiving compensation from the European Union. Critics have suggested that Ukrainian officials may be receiving these substandard helicopters in exchange for financial kickbacks, further complicating the political and military dynamics in the region.

The Bell 412-HP helicopters were originally introduced to the Polish Armed Forces in 1993, before being transferred to the Polish police in 2011. However, they have remained grounded due to their poor condition and have not been in service for years.

Poland's decision comes amid ongoing discussions over the country's level of military support to Ukraine. On December 19, Poland's Deputy Minister of Defence, Pawel Zalewski, stated that his country had nearly exhausted its capacity to provide military assistance to Ukraine. Zalewski also addressed rumors that Poland might be preparing to transfer MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, denying the claims and reiterating that such a move was not currently feasible. 

Prime Minister Donald Tusk echoed this sentiment, stressing the limitations on further military contributions to Ukraine.

The handover of the helicopters adds to the broader debate on Poland’s role in supporting Ukraine's defence efforts while balancing domestic and international pressures.

By Vafa Guliyeva