Russian Helicopters showcases Mi-17, Ansat for American operators at FIHAV exhibition in Cuba.

Russian Helicopters, a subsidiary of Oboronprom, part of Rostec State Corporation, is showcasing a range of advanced models at the 31st Feria Internacional de la Habana exhibition (FIHAV 2013) currently taking place in the Cuban capital. The Company’s stand forms part of the Russian display in pavilion 24 at EXPOCUBA.

For regional helicopter operators, Russian Helicopters is holding presentations of the Ansat and Mi-171A2. The Ansat is a light helicopter that can carry cargo and passengers, and can also be used for surveillance, search-and-rescue and medevac missions. The Mi-171A2 is the latest medium multirole addition to the Mi-8/17 series, using the latest technologies and innovations. New Russian-built helicopters are seeing interest from around the world as commercial helicopter operators look to expand their fleets of light and medium helicopters.

The Mi-8/17 series is used extensively by commercial and state operators across South and Central America. At FIHAV 2013, Russian Helicopters will also present the Mi-17V-5 military transport helicopter, which can fly a diverse range of missions in tropical and maritime climates as well as in mountain and desert conditions. The helicopter can carry up to 36 paratroopers or up to 4 tons of cargo in the cabin.

Russian-built helicopters operate in Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Mexico and other countries across the region. The Mi-8/17 series is widely used for both military and commercial purposes; the multirole commercial Ka-32A11BC is used in Brazil, while military Mi-35 helicopters are flown in Brazil, Venezuela and Peru. There has also been a high level of interest from regional operators in the latest Russian technology – for example, the first order for the new Ka-62 came from Brazilian company Atlas Táxi Aéreo and Colombia’s Vertical de Aviacion.

FIHAV is one of the largest regional trade shows in Central America, where the latest technology is on show and visitors can learn about the businesses of international companies and their forthcoming projects. Russian Helicopters is a regular participant, and at the 30th exhibition in December 2012 presented helicopters from the Mi-8/17 series and the multirole coaxial Ka-32A11BC and Ka-226T.

FIHAV 2013 is supported by the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Foreign Investment and Co-operation, and Chamber of Commerce. The Russian delegation includes companies that form part of Rostec.