Russian Defense Minister, Army General Shoigu Segei has visited Managua recently, to discuss among others, possible sale of Russian close support attack aircraft to combat drug traffickers. Although specific details were not disclosed, the possible candidate types are estimated to include YaK-130, MiG-AT or Su-39.

Attack helicopters such as the Mi-35 and Mi-28 are also eligible candidates. During the meeting, a draft agreement proposal for provision of Russian Naval docking rights and services in Nicaragua has also been discussed.