Turkish Defense Minister: The military assistance we offered to
Azerbaijan exceeded 200 million U.S. dollars
12 May 2010 [18:52] – Today.Az
An interview with Turkish Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul.
How do you evaluate current level of the Azerbaijan-Turkey military
cooperation? Are you satisfied with the outcomes?
We have established cooperation in a number of defense sector spheres
since Azerbaijan reached its independence and this process is
continuing now. There is good cooperation on the training and military
education sphere. Azerbaijani officers have an opportunity to get
education at the Turkish military schools. Turkish officers are
instructing the Azerbaijani armed forces. We are working together at
the defense industry sector as well and it is developing. Yesterday
two Turkish companies – ASELSAN and MKE signed agreements with the
relevant organizations of Azerbaijan about the joint production, which
can be good example of the cooperation. MKE will participate in the
production of ammunitions in Azerbaijan. ASELSAN will join the
production of night vision devices and thermal cameras in Azerbaijan.
Turkey leads the countries offering military assistance to Azerbaijan.
Can you inform us about the latest figures?
According to the reports I have, the military assistance we offered to
Azerbaijan exceeded 200 million US dollars.
What projects will be implemented jointly in the following years?
Media reports that Azerbaijan is interested in participating in the
projects of Altay national tank, ATAK helicopter.
Azerbaijan’s participation in these projects is possible. Azerbaijan
can participate in these projects if it wishes. At present, ATAK
helicopter is being produced with participation of Italy and Turkey.
But if Azerbaijan wishes it can join the production from the
beginning.
What can you say about the activities concerning ATAK project?
The engine is being renewed. The engine was produced and tested in
America. It is a powerful engine. Other systems are being tested at
present. If tests are successful, the helicopter will be assembled.
Do you think that Turkey and Azerbaijan can sign agreement on military
partnership? Is there a need for it?
Agreements, contracts have been signed on all spheres of the defense
sector in Azerbaijan. This cooperation already has legal sides. We are
the sons of the same nation. We are ready to cooperate with Azerbaijan
in all spheres.
/APA/
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From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
