Venezuela Buys $2B+ of Russian Tanks, Rockets… and More?

Smerch 9K58 firing
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In November 2005, the title “F.I. Looks At Latin American Arms Market, Sees Venezuelan Buildup” said it all. In 2006, “Venezuela Buying SU-30s, Helicopters, et. al. From Russia” covered a $3 billion arms deal with Russia for SU-30MK2 fighters, and Mi-17/26/35 transport and attack helicopters. Reports in December 2007 indicated a Russian desire to raise those exports to $12 billion over the medium term.

In the wake of Chevez’ purchases, neighbors like Colombia and Brazil have increased their defense budgets, and launched purchases of their own. Now, the latest large-scale deal involving Russia and Venezuela involves tanks, rocket artillery, and air defense missiles…

Kiewit Pacific to Build Battle Area Complex at the Pohakuloa Army Training Area

CH-47D Lifts Target
At Pohakuloa Training Area
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Kiewit Pacific Co. in Kapolei, HI won a $32.2 million firm-fixed price contract for construction of a battle area complex (BAX) and a tactical vehicle wash facility at the Pohakuloa Army Training Area.

Located on the island of Hawaii, the Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA) has a 51,000 acre impact area used for bombing and gunnery practice, which was refurbished by the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade in March 2009 to allow helicopter training. There are approximately 32,000 acres of land level enough for large maneuvers. The total PTA area (108,863 acres) is the largest US Department of Defense installation in the state of Hawaii.

The contract awarded to Kiewit Pacific combines work on 2 Army construction projects…