Russian Helicopters wil deliver the 3,500th export version of its famous Mi-17 to the Indian Air Force as part of the second contract si...
Russian Helicopters wil deliver the 3,500th export version of its famous Mi-17 to the Indian Air Force as part of the second contract signed by Rosoboronexport in 2012 for 71 helicopters.
The deliveries under the first contract for 80 Mi-17V-5 helicopters signed in 2008 has been completed.
The Mi-17V-5 is the upgraded version of the legendary Mi-8/17 series, fitted with a KNEI-8 avionics suite and a new PKV-8 autopilot, which helps reduce pilot workload and provides comprehensive information to enable pilots to complete complex missions.
In addition, the helicopters also features powerful Klimov VK2500 engines and strengthened gearboxes to enable high-altitude operations in the high mountain terrain characteristic of northern India.
With a takeoff weight of 13,000 kg, the Mi-17V-5 can carry either 36 armed soldiers internally or 4500 kg of cargo on a sling.
Soviet and Russian-built helicopters have operated successfully in India for more than half a century. The first Mi-4s were delivered in January 1961. Other Russian helicopters with India, include the world's largest Mi-26 heavy lift helicopter and Mi-24/35s attack helicopters.
