Russian Helicopters Proposes Major Upgrade of Chinese Military Choppers

Russian Helicopters has proposed a service and upgrade option for Mi-17, Mi-171, Ka-27, Ka-28, and Ka-31 helicopters currently in used by China’s military.

The option includes upgrades to engines and avionics, installation of the latest navigation system, and the establishment of infrastructure for equipment repair and maintenance contracts for Russian-made components.

The Russian company presented the after-sales service for Russian helicopters to China at the international helicopter exhibition China Helicopter Exposition 2015 in Tianjin.

As part of this concept, the Russian producers proposed the repair, maintenance, and modernization of the Mi-17 and Mi-171 helicopters, as well as 17 Ka-27/28 and 9 Ka-31 helicopters currently in use by the Chinese armed forces, including the Navy.

“China is one of our strategic partners with whom we have not only trade relations, but also plans to implement long-term projects, such as a heavy helicopter,” said Alexander Mikheev, CEO of Russian Helicopters. “Creating an after-sales service option for Russian helicopters in China will not only increase their longevity but also enable their modernization with advanced technological developments.”

The service for the Mi-17 and Mi-171 helicopters will include the replacement of the engine, auxiliary power unit, and transmission; the installation of equipment for parachute-less landing and early warning systems for collisions with artificial obstacles, high-voltage electric lines and the installation of a satellite navigation system.

The Ka-28 will be equipped with the latest avionics, flight-navigation and search-and-sighting systems, as well as a new control and registration system for flight information.