By Khabarmala Correspondent
The United States government has proposed providing Nepal with six helicopters under a grant assistance program. However, according to sources, the Government of Nepal is preparing to request a single heavy-lift aircraft instead, based on its operational needs.

The US proposal, made under its military financing program, aimed to supply rotary-wing helicopters to the Nepali Army. During his visit to Nepal in August 2024, Richard R. Verma had announced assistance worth $100 million (approximately NPR 15 billion) for Nepal.

Nepali officials say the government is now reassessing the offer and considering an alternative request aligned with national priorities. In a letter sent by the US Embassy to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the US had proposed providing six helicopters, including twin-engine rotary-wing aircraft. These were intended for emergency rescue, firefighting, night operations, and drone-assisted emergency missions.

However, following discussions among the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defense, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Nepali Army, Nepal is moving toward requesting a heavy-lift aircraft capable of transporting large quantities of materials.

“Our current priority is not helicopters,” a Foreign Ministry official said. “We need an aircraft capable of carrying heavy loads such as steel, concrete, timber, and other construction materials to remote areas.” According to the official, Nepal is preparing to formally send an alternative proposal to the United States.

Recent consultations have also taken place among the Chief of Army Staff, ministers, and senior government secretaries. Sources indicate that Nepal is trying to find a solution that fits both its needs and US assistance priorities.

Another reason behind the shift is the high maintenance, fuel, spare parts, and training costs associated with helicopters. The original US assistance package also included pilot training and maintenance support.

According to Defense Ministry spokesperson Manoj Kumar Acharya, he is aware only that correspondence is ongoing between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nepali Army, and the US Embassy.

In the past, the United States has provided Nepal with various helicopters and Skytruck aircraft, contributing to the expansion of the Nepali Army’s air capabilities. Officials believe that continued cooperation will further strengthen Nepal’s aviation and disaster response capacity.