The Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) claims that its fleet is being equipped with brand-new helicopters for the first time. The procurement of helicopters from Russia for the IRCS had been planned years ago, but was halted following corruption allegations during the tenure of Ali-Asghar Peivandi. Now that the new Mi-171 helicopters are en route to Iran, the question arises: Does this purchase align with search-and-rescue missions, especially in light of what has been experienced during events such as the Elit and Khaeez forest fires?
Iran, with its vast geographical expanse, long distances, and need for aerial relief as a country prone to earthquakes and floods, has always grappled with natural disasters requiring aerial operations. This contract has been signed precisely at a time when Iran and the United States are engaged in negotiations aimed at reaching an agreement and lifting sanctions. Shahrooz Jahanbin, a professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, emphasizes that maintaining a helicopter is far more expensive than purchasing one. Speaking to IranWire, he notes: “Many companies refuse to sell to or enter into contracts with Iran due to the high risk of doing business with the country and the potential for future political shifts. Consequently, Iranians prefer to purchase from Russia or China so that they can secure parts and technical support in the event of political complications.”
