Spain blocks illegal sale of choppers to Iran

Toronto Telegraph (IANS) Friday 27th May, 2011

Spain has thwarted the illegal sale of nine combat helicopters to Iran, arresting five Spanish businessmen and three Iranians, authorities said Thursday.

There was also planned to illegally export military aircraft parts to Venezuela, according to police.

The material intended for Venezuela was found along with the nine Bell-112 helicopters at warehouses in Madrid and Barcelona. Authorities valued the merchandise at roughly 100 million euros ($140 million).

Made in the US, the Bell-212 has a maximum speed of 230 kph and can fly 600 km without refueling.

The Bell helicopters, used to transport troops and military equipment, are subject to export controls under both Spanish and European Union regulations, police said.

Investigators were alerted to the transaction when the Iranian buyers arrived in Spain.

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