Russian Helicopters Starts Producing Mi-38T Helicopters

Kazan Helicopters has commenced assembling the first prototype Mi-38T heavy transport helicopter that will be used to conduct joint flight tests for compliance with the requirements of the Armed Forces.

Under a contract with the Russian defense ministry signed at the MAKS air show, Russian Helicopters will supply two of the rotorcraft before the end of 2019.

Also, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yury Borisov at the show confirmed the military plans to buy up to 15 of the type through 2020.

The Mi-38T helicopter is a military version of the Mi-38, which is developed by JSC Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant.

According to their results, further purchases of the Mi-38T for the needs of VKS will be planned within the framework of the state armament program in 2018 to 2025.

“We expect that the Mi-38 will be in demand in Russia and abroad, as operators often encounter situations that require high load capacity and thrust of the helicopter,” said Andrey Boginsky, CEO of the Russian Helicopters holding.

The Mi-38T, the assembly of which is carried out on the production capacities of Kazan Helicopters, differs from the basic certified Mi-38 helicopter on a number of parameters and the composition of the equipment.

The assembled machine will be composed of aggregates and components manufactured exclusively in Russia. In addition, it is planned to install the fuel system with explosion protection in this helicopter, as well as 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.

The transport version of the Mi-38T allows expanding functionality and extending the scope of machines by creating specialized versions, including the “Arctic” version of the helicopter.

Multi-purpose medium helicopters Mi-38 can be used for cargo and passenger transport, as a search-and-rescue helicopter and also for flights over water.