Two laws formalizing the donation of four Brazilian aircraft and military equipment to Paraguay and Uruguay were sanctioned on Monday (Jan. 12).

In addition to two 412 Classic helicopters manufactured by Bell Aircraft Corporation and operated by the Federal Police, Brazil will donate six M108 self-propelled howitzer armored combat vehicles to Paraguay, as well as a floating aluminum walkway - a type of bridge that can be installed over rivers and other waterways - belonging to the Army.

In the case of Uruguay, the National Navy will receive two Bell Jet Ranger III (IH-6B) helicopters transferred from the Brazilian Navy.

Signed by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Defense Minister José Múcio Monteiro Filho, the laws were proposed by the Executive Branch, which argued that the initiative seeks to strengthen diplomatic relations and military cooperation between Brazil and its two neighboring countries.

According to the Brazilian presidential palace, the measure will contribute to the modernization and expansion of the operational capabilities of Paraguayan and Uruguayan security forces, improving regional security, “with increased capacity to respond to emergency situations and combat transnational crime.”

The aircraft and other equipment will be donated in their “current state of conservation,” and the expenses related to their relocation from their locations to the borders of Paraguay and Uruguay will be covered by Brazil.