The India's Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the selection of Ka-226T light helicopter to replace the ageing fleet of H...
Over 200 Ka-226T utility helicopters will be built locally with Transfer of Technology (ToT) from Russian Helicopters. The non-tender basis selection is in tune with the "Make in India" initiative, aimed to reduce imports and achieve self sufficiency in defense technology.
In 2014, DAC canceled a tender to purchase 197 Light Utility Helicopters (LUH) worth $1 billion in which Airbus Helicopter’s AS550 Fennec was competing with the Ka-226T, following corruption allegation. Both helicopters where extensively flight tested before canceling the tender.
A prototype Ka-226T successfully underwent the tests in India. This helicopter performed flights in India's hot, mountainous areas, and consistently out-performed its competitor, according to Russian Helicopters. During flight tests in the Himalayas, the Ka-226T achieved an altitude of 7,200 meters.
The Ka-226T was developed by Kamov design bureau and is a development in the Ka-26, Ka-126, and Ka-226 light helicopter series.
The Ka-226T is designed to operate in hard-to- reach mountainous terrain and hot climate. It can transport up to 1,500 kg or 7 troops.
It is powered by two French Turbomeca Arrius 2G1 turboshaft engines rated at 580 shp and is equipped with FADEC.
The Ka-226T is also equipped with new reduction gear and the latest avionics. It can easily manoeuvre in dense, built-up, urban environments and mountainous areas. The absence of a tail rotor and compact size mean that it can land in small spaces. It does not need to be stored in a hangar.
