The private sector now accounts for the majority of agricultural production. Industrial Profile One of the most promising sectors for investment is in the electronics and software industries. Armenia specialized during Soviet times in high-tech defense industries, and is well known for its highly educated engineers and skilled workers. Electronics firms, such as Mars and Ashtarak transistor plants, will be offered for sale by international tender. Other plants may provide prospects for electronics and consumer goods assembly.
Software engineering is another growing investment sector.
Several U.S. firms are currently engaged in software projects in Armenia. The country is therefore forced to rely mainly on aviation and a few unstable, low-capacity, and land connections via Georgia and Iran. Armenian Airlines services routes to the NIS, and several European and Middle Eastern destinations. British Mediterranean and Swiss Air offer flights between London and Zurich, respectively. Armenian Airlines announced in 1998 its plans for privatization.