World’s First Helo Capable of Putting out Fires at Sub-Zero Temp ‘Ka-32A11BC’ Makes First Flight with New Engine

The upgraded Russian Ka-32A11BC helicopter, capable of extinguishing fires at low temperatures, completed its first flight using VK-2500PS-02 engine.

The duration of the flight was 37 minutes. During the tests, the stable operation of all systems was confirmed, stability and high controllability were demonstrated, Russian Helicopters said.

The VK-2500PS-02 engines, which power the upgraded Ka-32A11BC, were developed and manufactured by UEC-Klimov, which is part of United Engine Corporation (UEC). The use of new power plants made it possible to improve the flight performance of the rotorcraft, expanded the possibilities for operating the helicopter, including when working with an external sling.

“The VK-2500PS-02 engines increase the stability and safety of helicopter control in strong crosswinds, including in high altitude conditions. This will expand the geography of the use of the machine in extinguishing forest fires and conducting emergency rescue operations. We plan to complete all certification tests in the third quarter of 2023,” said Anatoly Serdyukov, industrial director of the Rostec aviation cluster. 

The upgraded Ka-32A11BC is the world's first helicopter capable of putting out fires at sub-zero temperatures. This opportunity was provided by a unique domestic suspended fire extinguishing system SP-32 with a water heating function. Its capacity is up to 4000 liters with the possibility of using 400 liters of foam agent. Thanks to a more powerful water intake system, the tank is automatically filled in just 60 seconds - 25% faster than in the previous version of the helicopter. Among the options that provide fire-fighting are the VSU-5 suspended spillways and a water gun for horizontal fire extinguishing.

In addition, the helicopter is equipped with modern emergency equipment, as well as a "glass cockpit" - a digital flight and navigation system with display indication. The Ka-32A11BC is capable of extinguishing fires in conditions of heavy smoke, on the last floors of high-rise buildings and oil and gas industry facilities.

The twin-rotor design of this line of rotorcraft provides their unique maneuverability in vertical and horizontal planes, increases stability, as well as piloting comfort. This is especially important when performing emergency rescue operations and extinguishing fires in difficult ground conditions or in dense urban areas, including near high-rise buildings, when the flight and stable hovering of the helicopter are hampered by wind vortex flows.

The updated Ka-32A11BC is adapted for the use of night vision goggles. The capabilities of the helicopter can be expanded by installing additional surveillance, navigation and other target equipment integrated into the airborne flight and navigation system.