Russian Helicopters, a subsidiary of Oboronprom, part of State Corporation Rostec, announces that Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant has delivered four Mi-171E transport helicopters to China’s Poly Technologies, the final consignment of a contract for 48 helicopters signed by Rosoboronexport in 2012. In total under the original contract and a follow-on agreement the Chinese company has received 52 helicopters.
“The successful completion of this large contract to supply Mi-171E helicopters is another step towards strengthening successful cooperation between Russia and China,” said Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant managing director Leonid Belykh. “Our helicopters have demonstrated their unique capabilities in action in China, and are deservedly in high demand in this fast-growing and high-potential market.”
The new helicopters are equipped to produce exceptional performance in mountainous terrain, including VK-2500 engines delivering increased power, a Safir auxiliary power plant and updated gearbox. Additional internal fuel tanks, a searchlight and landing seats significantly expand the helicopters’ operational options.
Chinese crews have successfully completed training at the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant’s training centre, where they learned techniques and rules for piloting the helicopters in various conditions using advanced training methods on the latest Mi-171 flight simulator. The pilots praised the comfort and ease of use of the simulator, its consistency with a real helicopter and the high level of competence of the training centre staff.
Mi-171E operates successfully across China, in particular in areas with challenging terrains and harsh climates. They are used to carry cargo including medical supplies, humanitarian aid and construction materials. Russian Helicopters and Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant have received numerous appreciative reviews of the helicopters’ ultra-reliability when dealing with emergency situations.
China is one of the biggest operators of Russian-made helicopters, and has a fleet of about 160 Mi-171s. Russian Helicopters is currently developing the latest model in this renowned series, the Mi-171A2, and Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant is making preparations to put the model into serial production.
Russian Helicopters will showcase the Mi-171A2 and other new developments to potential customers from around the world at the Farnborough International Airshow currently underway at the town of the same name near London.
