Russian Helicopters will deliver 140 helicopters to Russia’s Defence Ministry following the signing of a long-pending deal, a senior defence official has said.

Oboronprom director general Andrei Reus said Russian Helicopters had earmarked $200-250m for helicopter development research including Mi-38, Ka-62, Mi-34S1, and for the overhaul of Mi-17.

“Until 2020 Russian Helicopters will supply the Defense Ministry with 140 helicopters worth at least R120bn ($4bn).

“We plan to invest another R6bn ($200m) soon,” Reus added.

The deal, which was signed at the end of the last month, was delayed due to price disputes between the ministry and defence sector companies, according to RIA Novosti.