Defense Industry News - Kazan helicopters |
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Thursday
, 2 December 2010, 13:27 PM |
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Second
new russian transport helicopter Mi-38 OP-2 prototype begins
testing.
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Kazan/2
December 2010 – OP-2, the second prototype of the
new Mi-38 helicopter built by Moscow Mil Helicopter Plant
JSC and Kazan Helicopters JSC, the subsidiaries of the Russian
Helicopters holding company, has achieved its first flight.
The test program that was started is proceeding well according
to Kazan Helicopters specialists: the helicopter has already
completed 26 ground runups and 7 hover and low speed flights
over the runway.
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Russian Mi-38 transport helicopter
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The
design of the machine undergoing flight tests was modified
pursuant to the results of tests on the first Mi-38 prototype
– the OP-1. The hydraulic and fuel systems have been
upgraded and some changes have been made to the main rotor
blades. The helicopter control system now has spring feel
mechanisms of type design. As a result the helicopter is
in maximum compliance with the Russian airworthiness regulations
AP-29, a counterpart of FAR-29. Its handling and stability
have improved. It is equipped with Pratt & Whitney Canada
PW 127/TS engines and the modern Tranzas IBKV-38 avionics
suite with a glass cockpit. The helicopter can also be equipped
with Russian TV7-117V engines. The Mi-38 OP-2 is scheduled
to be handed over to Moscow Mil Helicopter Plant for the
full flight test cycle. |
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{youtube}h8yvrSHaDVw{/youtube}
Video
Flight test of Russian Mi-38 OP-2 prototype transport helicopter |
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Moscow Mil
Helicopter Plant is planning to demonstrate the Mi-38
OP-2 helicopter in 2011. Mass production at Kazan Helicopters
is scheduled for 2013. The third prototype of the Mi-38
is in assembly in Kazan.
The medium multi-role cargo and transport Mi-38 is designed
for passenger transportation (including VIP flights),
carrying loads in the cabin and on an external sling,
search and rescue, offshore, and flying hospital operations.
According to design specifications, the Mi-38 will have
a high payload and top speed. The Mi-38 will have a spacious
passenger cabin and highly efficient engines. The labour
constant for service and maintenance may be reduced thanks
to a built-in automated equipment and engine serviceability
control system.
The Mi-38 is a new generation helicopter that can perform
up to the highest safety and comfort standards for helicopters
in its class.
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