Colombia Air Force Helicopter Units

Larry J. Smith

Below is the last detailed air orbat we have for the Colombia Air Force, good as of early 2000. Since then, at least 63 helicopters have been delivered from the US to Colombia, some purchased through FMS.  These include 33 UH-1Ns (military Bell 212) and two batches of Blackhawks (14 and 16). One of the batches Is for the S-70 model, and one for the UH-60L model. A third batch of 18 Blackhawks is scheduled for 2002-03 delivery. The UH-1Hs, which have been upgraded, are primarily used as gunships.  The National Police owns 12 UH-1Hs, upgraded to Huey II standard. It is likely two more helicopter squadrons have been formed.

With increasing attention being paid post September 11, 2001 to Colombia, and with one source estimating the country may need up to 400 helicopters to combat narco-guerillas, more shipments to Colombia appear likely.

 Meanwhile, the Air Force is preparing to purchase a new light combat aircraft to replace its OV-10A and A-37B attack aircraft, with 24 new aircraft for $235 million under consideration.

Air Tactical Support Command 1 (Melgar)

Air Group 51
512 Medium Squadron	4/5 Bell 205/UH-1H	COIN/Transport
513 Medium Squadron	15/3 Hughes 500/530	Training/Observation
514 Helicopter Trg Squadron	12 Enstron F28, OH-13	Basic Trg, Historic Flt
515 Atk Helicopter Squadron	25 UH-1H/2 MD 500	COIN/Observation

Air Tactical Support Command 2 (Medellin)

Air Group 61
611 Squadron	24 UH-60A/L	Transport