Russian Mi-8AMTSh-VN helicopter starts flight trials.

Russian Helicopters Holding began a cycle of flight trials of Mil Mi-8AMTSh-VN combat-transport helicopter. The first flight took place in the Mil and Kamov National Helicopter Center. The new rotorcraft will land and support airborne assault and engage in special operations. It is equipped with the latest devices, reinforced weapons and protection, the holding said.

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Mil Mi-8AMTSh-VN (Picture source: Air Recognition)

The trials will test aerodynamic characteristics, maneuverability, stability and controls, as well as reliability and effectiveness of arms and protection. "Mi-8AMTSh-VN technical concept was formed according to the experience of combat engagement of helicopters in modern armed conflicts. The high-power engines, a new lifting system, expanded weapons, reinforced protection and other characteristics of the upgraded helicopter increase its combat capabilities for operations in the most difficult conditions. The first stage of trials is to be completed in November. Another two helicopters will join the trials later," Rostec Industrial Director for aviation Anatoly Serdyukov said.

The prototype was produced by Ulan-Ude Aircraft Plant and equipped by Mil and Kamov center. It was demonstrated at major Russian shows. Foreign delegations praised the new rotorcraft. A contract for ten Mi-8AMTSh-VN was signed with the Defense Ministry at Army-2019 forum. "Mi-8AMTSh-VN prototype is undergoing ground and flight trials. They will be initially held by the Mil and Kamov center and then by specialized state institutes and flight centers," Russian Helicopters CEO Andrey Boginsky said.

Mi-8AMTSh-VN can engage in a broad range of missions, transportation and landing, and fire support to commando assault. It has an upgraded lifting rotor with composite blades of the modern aerodynamic scheme. The rotor has a bigger thrust and together with more powerful engines increased capacity, maneuverability, and speed and provided new characteristics for operations in the mountains and hot climate. The helicopter has a more efficient X-shaped torque rotor.

Mi-8AMTSh has increased survivability and protection due to the onboard defense, titanium and Kevlar armor, etc. The armor protects the crew and important units, as well as the assault force in the cargo cabin. Two sliding doors and additional hatches increase the airborne assault capabilities of the helicopter.

Mi-8AMTSh-VN is armed with 12.7mm machineguns. Besides the guns, unguided missiles and bombs, it has a set of missile arms with sights to fight air and ground targets, destroy adversary firing points and armor.

The helicopter can effectively operate at night. It has a gyro-stabilized optical-electronic system, two-band light equipment and is adapted for night vision goggles. Many missions can be fulfilled automatically due to integrated piloting and navigational complex and digital autopilot. Automatic piloting equipment decreases the load on the crew and increases engagement effectiveness in modern conflicts

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