The first prototype of the new Russian military transport helicopter, Mi-38T completed maiden flight. The Mi-38T is the military varia...
The first prototype of the new Russian military transport helicopter, Mi-38T completed maiden flight.
The Mi-38T is the military variant of the Mi-38 civilian helicopter, designed by JSC Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant, positioned between the lighter Mi-8/17 and the heavy Mi-26.
The helicopter is the first of two Mi-38T contracted by Russian Defense Ministry for flight testing.
The 15 ton helicopter is ideal for cargo and passenger transport, as a search-and-rescue helicopter and also for flights over water. It can be operated in a wide range of climatic conditions including maritime, tropical and cold climates.
In addition, the Mi-38T has a high degree of automation, its flight-navigation complex allows performing flight automatically along a given route and approach, stabilization of the spatial position in any flight mode, as well as automatic landing.
The military variant is equipped additional fuel tanks to increase flight range, special communications equipment and equipment for the use of maritime rescue suits by the members of the crew.
Powered by the Russian Klimov TV7-117V turboshaft engine capable of generating 2500-3000 hp, the Mi-38 can cruise at 295 km/h and has a flight range more than 1,200 km. The engine can generate 2,800 to 3,750 hp during emergency conditions.
The engine features a new FADEC system using either the BARK-12 or BARK-57 electronic engine control unit.
Also, the helicopter has additional support on the landing gear for landing on soft ground and snow. The cabin contains easily removable chairs, removable sanitary equipment and roller table equipment for the transportation of goods.
