Russia to start testing Arctic version of the Mi-8AMTSh-VA helicopter by November 2704153.

Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant (part of Russia Helicopters Holding Company) is developing the Mi-8AMTSh-VA helicopter designed for operation in the Arctic Region, Voenno-Promishlenniy Courier reports. «The fuselage assembly is being completed. We are receiving documentation for installation of systems. The helicopter should be transferred to the final assembly workshop in April. The work (including testing) should be completed in October or November,» a source said.

«Taking into account the aspects of flights performed in the North above the featureless terrain, the decision was made to equip the helicopters with inertial navigation system in addition to satellite navigation. Such systems are installed on Tu-95MS bombers,» the source said.

He added that TA-14 auxiliary power unit after the start under temperatures of around -50 Celsius allows bleeding hot air (+100 Celsius) and heating the main engines and cockpit in order to carry out flight preparation.

In order to improve the life-support system, ventilation and heating systems have been upgraded. In addition, the crews must wear immersion suits during flights; the suits are designed to help pilots survive in case of emergency landing in the Arctic Region.

Mi-8/17 helicopters developed by Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant are one of the most successful programs of the national helicopter industry. The most important advantages of these vehicles, which helped them gain confidence of operators all over the world, are: outstanding aircraft performance, reliability, ability to be operated at air temperatures varying from -50 to +50°C, versatility and ease of operation.