Russia unveils NV.17 hybrid helicopter to bridge the gap between light and heavy models.

As reported by Fighterbomber on November 13, 2024, the development of Russia's new NV.17 hybrid helicopter has advanced to the technical design phase, following the completion of its preliminary and draft design stages. The helicopter, developed by Heliburo, is a medium-class helicopter designed for multiple roles, including cargo transport, passenger carriage, and fire support. Russia plans to conduct the helicopter’s first flight in 2027.
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Like many Russian helicopters, the NV.17 helicopter, equipped with external pylons and rocket launchers, will likely be used for multi-role operations, including reconnaissance and close air support. (Picture source: Telegram/Fighterbomber)

The NV.17 is equipped with a hybrid power plant and a combined control system. It is designed to operate for up to seven hours on a single fuel reserve and is capable of covering a distance of approximately 50 kilometers in seven minutes. The helicopter’s landing gear is retractable during flight to improve aerodynamic performance. For combat missions, it can be outfitted with unguided rocket launchers, adding fire support capabilities to its operational profile.

The NV.17 is intended to fill a medium-class role within Russia’s helicopter fleet, complementing lighter models like the Ansat and heavy-duty helicopters such as the Mi-26. It is positioned to handle missions requiring greater capacity than light helicopters while avoiding the operational constraints of larger aircraft. Its design also reflects similarities to the Mi-17, which is widely used for transport and military operations. Comparable medium-class helicopters include the American UH-60 Black Hawk and the European NH90, both of which share the NV.17’s emphasis on multi-role capabilities and modern features.

Russia is concurrently modernizing other segments of its helicopter fleet. Notable upgrades include attack helicopters such as the Ka-52M and Mi-28NM. The Ka-52M features updated avionics, enhanced targeting systems, and compatibility with new weapons, including the LMUR missile. Deliveries began in early 2023. The Mi-28NM has received upgrades to its engines, radar systems, and defensive measures to support diverse combat scenarios.

Transport and utility helicopters are also undergoing upgrades. The Mi-26T2V, a variant of the Mi-26 heavy-lift helicopter, has received advanced avionics, improved navigation systems, and additional defensive features. Deliveries to the Russian military began in 2023. The Mi-38T, developed to replace older Mi-8 and Mi-17 models, offers increased payload, extended range, and updated avionics. The first Mi-38T helicopters were delivered to the Russian Ministry of Defense in 2019, with further orders placed.

The conflict in Ukraine has led to notable losses in Russia’s helicopter fleet, stimulating the development of new models. Open-source intelligence reports the destruction or damage of at least 61 Ka-52 helicopters since the conflict began. This figure contributes to an estimated overall loss of 10% of Russia’s helicopter fleet, with a significant portion involving attack helicopters. These losses have been attributed to Ukrainian air defenses, anti-aircraft systems, and targeted strikes on airbases.

The reduction in available helicopters has affected Russia's operational capabilities. The loss of attack helicopters has likely impacted close air support effectiveness. Additionally, losses of specialized helicopters, such as Mi-8MTPR-1 electronic warfare variants, may have reduced electronic warfare and reconnaissance capacity. These developments illustrate the operational challenges faced by Russia in maintaining its air operations amid the ongoing conflict.