Flight Tests Begin of new Russian Mi-8 Special Operations Helicopter

Fight tests have commenced of a new Mil Mi-8AMTSh-VN helicopter meant for Russian special operations forces, which has been developed based on combat experience in Syria.

"The construction of helicopters (Mi-8AMTSh-VN) is proceeding along with the R&D work. The national helicopter-building center has already started flights," CEO of Russian Helicopters Andrei Boginsky was quoted as saying on Wednesday.

"The first stage of the trials is due to be completed in November. Eventually, two more helicopters (of this type) will join the flights (tests)," he said.

The Mi-8AMTSh-VN helicopter employs two side-mounted 12.7mm forward-firing machine-guns. The helicopter is outfitted with new flight control and navigation equipment, a gyro-stabilized opto-electronic system, a searchlight with an infrared emitter, dual-band lighting equipment and is adapted for using night vision goggles.

In order to increase its combat survivability, the Mi-8AMTSh-VN is outfitted with a digital autopilot system and a defensive aids suite that automatically detects missile launches against the helicopter, jams missile homing warheads and releases heat flares.

The crew’s cabin and the helicopter’s main systems are protected by the new armor made of titanium alloy. The floor of the cargo compartment and the helicopter’s sides are shielded up to the windows with the removable lightweight Kevlar armor to protect the crew.

Russia’s Defense Ministry signed a contract with Russian Helicopters rotorcraft manufacturer at the Army-2019 international arms show for the delivery of ten latest Mi-8AMTSh-VN special-purpose helicopters. The gunships are due to be delivered in 2020-2021.