Russian Helicopters Concludes First Mi-171A2 Export Contract with India

Russian Helicopters concluded the first export contract for the supply of medium multirole helicopter Mi-171A2 with the Indian company Vectra Group during the second day of the Dubai Airshow 2017.

In accordance with provisions of this agreement, Mi-171A2 will be delivered to the customer in 2018. Moreover, the contract provides for an option for purchasing of one more helicopter, the company said in a statement Monday.

"The certification and successful operation of Mi-171A2 in India will allow other buyers to translate their interest into new contracts," said CEO of Russian Helicopters Andrey Boginsky after signing of the contract.

The multirole helicopter Mi-171A2 is a result of modernization of Mi-8/M-17 series helicopters. There are about 80 modifications in the Mi-171A2 design as compared to the baseline model. The helicopter is equipped with the VK-2500PS-03 engines with the digital control system. It also has a power unit with the increased capacity and, therefore, strengthened transmission.

Due to the digital navigation system with data indication on displays, the helicopter can be operated by a crew consisting of only two men. Introduction of equipment for diagnostics and monitoring of essential systems status as a part of airborne avionics has increased the helicopter reliability and made it possible to reduce maintenance time. The Mi-171A2 has a X-type anti-torque rotor and a new main rotor with all-composite blades with the improved airframe configuration.