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World Aviation Defense & Security News - Russian Helicopters
 
 
Russian Helicopters' Mi-171A2 completes low temperature trials
 
Russian Helicopters today confirmed the possibility to operate the latest multirole Mi-171A2 helicopters in harsh climatic conditions at air temperatures down to minus 50 degrees. The trials in Yakutia confirmed the operability of the main systems and onboard equipment, the holding said.
     
Russian Helicopters Mi 171A2 completes low temperature trials 640 001The Mi-171A2 performing low temperature trials
(Credit: Rostec/Russian Helicopters)
     
Two Mi-171A2 designed by the Mil Helicopter Works in Moscow carried out eight ground races (engine operations without takeoff) and 36 flights by special programs. Although air temperature dropped to minus 60 degrees all systems and onboard equipment operated properly and confirmed the possibility of reliable Mi171A2 operation in harsh climatic conditions.

"Helicopters of the Mi-8/17 family have a reputation of low-maintenance and hard-working craft which do not fear difficult conditions. The confirmation of the possibility to operate Mi-171A2 at super low temperatures was expected. I want to thank pilots and technicians who sustained major frosts and completed test trials in a short time," Russian Helicopters CEO Andrey Boginsky said.

GosNII GA experts who participated in the trials noted the short time in flight preparation of Mi-171A2, the convenience of technical maintenance, air and ground operation of the new helicopter, reliable operation of the digital piloting and navigational complex and digital power plant control system, as well as technical diagnostics. All the necessary objective data and documents were obtained for further attestation and additional certification of Mi-171A2 helicopter by the A certification category.

Over 80 changes have been introduced into the Mi-171A2 construction. The helicopter is equipped with VK-2500PS-03 engines (civilian version of the engines for combat Mi-28 helicopters) with a digital control system. Mi-171A2 is distinguished from Mi-8/17 family by a new lifting system. The helicopter has a more efficient X-shaped anti-torque rotor and a new lifting rotor with all-composite blades of upgraded aerodynamic configuration. Thus, due to aerodynamics the lifting rotor thrust of Mi-171A2 grew over 700 kg which improved all flight and technical characteristics.

     
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