US vetoed ALX sales to Colombia

US government said NO to the purchase of 40 AT-29 ALX (Super Tucano) by the Colombian Air Force, which would be financed by “Colombia Plan”‘s money. According to the Colombian newspaper “El Tiempo” the American opinion was announced by the US Armed Forces Southern Command commander, general James T. Hill, in a letter to the Colombian Armed Forces commander, general Jorge Enrique Mora. In its letter, Hill said he would be worried about the US$234 millions which would be spent in this purchase, while there are more urgent necessities as the Hercules’ upgrade. He suggests that Colombia avoids this purchases and approves the American proposal of upgrading the Colombian fleet of OV-10 and A-37, which are older than 30 years now, at the cost of US$34 millions. At last, he warns that US Congress may not like this purchase and this would influence negatively new financings approval. Brazilian Foreign Relationships’ minister must declear a note for the press today saying that he rejects the American position and that he understands that Colombia is sovereign country and it must purchase the Brazilian light-attack fighters.
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Just a very short comment: THIS SUCKS!!!

Regards,
Junin