Russian Helicopters’ Mi-38 Fourth Prototype Helo Completes First Flight

Russian Helicopters’ fourth prototype of the new multirole Mi-38 helicopter has successfully completed its test flight, the company said in a statement today.

The helicopter was sent to the test flight centre at Military Moscow Helicopter Plant for preparations ahead of its certification testing.

“Today, for the first time, the fourth prototype of this helicopter that will soon start certification testing took to the skies. Assembly production has already been launched on the fuselage of the first series-produced units. I am confident that the helicopter will see great demand in Russia, the CIS countries, and on our traditional markets countries across Africa, South East Asia, and Latin America,” Russian Helicopters deputy CEO, Kazan Helicopters CEO Vadim Ligai said.

The Mi-38 fourth prototype differs from that of the third prototype in its shock-resistant fuel system and larger windows. As with the third prototype, the fourth prototype of the Mi-38 is equipped with twin TV7-117V turboshaft engines manufactured by Klimov. The engines’ power shafts are in a forward position and are located behind the main gearbox, which significantly reduces the level of noise in the cabin.