The Slovenian Air Force has been operating AS532 AL Cougars for troop transport missions since 2004.

Interview with Colonel Igor Zalokar, Force Commander Assistant for Air Force and Air Defence.

“Our Cougars have been operational since 2004, when our pilots and technicians completed training both at Eurocopter and back in Slovenia. Each helicopter now flies an annual 300 to 500 hours in different configurations, and we fly in IFR conditions and perform NVG (Night Vision Goggle) missions. While troop transport continues to be our main mission – we are currently in Slovenia to support our ground contingent in Kosovo – we carry out a number of other missions including heavy load transport, fire fighting in Southern Slovenia (we can carry 3,000 liters of water in Bambi buckets), SAR operations, and VIP transport on demand.

We are pleased that the Cougars are capable of flying in difficult meteorological conditions, particularly in cold weather and icing conditions. Here in Slovenia we often have to operate in very mountainous regions, and the Cougar has demonstrated excellent performance at high altitude.

Another advantage of Eurocopter helicopters is the superb technical support, which led to us developing a great working relationship right from the start. We were particularly satisfied with technical representative sent over by Eurocopter facilitated contact, and our technical squadron was delighted to have him. We can honestly say we are very satisfied with the Cougar.”