Russian Helicopters, Rosoboronexport Sign Contract to Export Upgraded Mi-171E Choppers

Russian Helicopters (RH) and Rosoboronexport (ROE) have signed a contract with a foreign customer to deliver a batch of modernized Mi-171E helicopters.

The upgraded Mi-171Es are distinguished by an improved power plant and increased carrying capacity. In addition, they are equipped with the most modern avionics equipment.

The contract provides for the delivery abroad of the latest modernized Mi-171E helicopters manufactured by the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant of the Russian Helicopters holding, Rostec, the parent company of RH and ROE said in a statement.

Helicopters of the Mi-17 type are successfully operated in high-altitude conditions in Latin American countries, in particular in police operations to combat drug smuggling. There is experience of their use in arctic conditions, in the tropical climate of the countries of the Asia-Pacific region and in African countries.

The name of the foreign customer and the number of helicopters has not been specified in the release. Several Russian defense and aerospace enteprises are under Western sanctions which specifically targets their international sales and supply of parts and spares.

The upgraded Mi-171E helicopters are distinguished by an improved power plant. The machine is equipped with two VK-2500PS-03 engines. They have increased power and increased resource indicators, and are also equipped with a FADEC type digital control system.

“A major modernization of the carrier system has been carried out, which includes composite rotor blades, an X-shaped tail rotor with composite blades, a new swashplate and a reinforced transmission. The helicopter has improved stabilizer aerodynamics, an improved keel beam, and the possibility of installing both left and right sliding doors. The carrying capacity on the external sling has been increased by 20%, which is now up to 5000 kg. The most modern on-board radio-electronic equipment has been installed, which ensures round-the-clock use of the helicopter in any weather conditions,” said Aleksey Kozlov, General Director of the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant.