MAKS is an international air salon that takes place every two years at Zhukovsky International Airport in Russia, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) southeast of Moscow and home to the Gromov Flight Research Institute. Since the first show was held in 1992, MAKS has grown to become one of the world’s largest aviation gatherings and an important business event for the Russian aerospace industry.
Flown by both military and civilian operators, the heavy-lift Mi-26 is the world’s largest production helicopter, with the latest version, the Mi-26T, capable of carrying up to 20 tons of cargo. At MAKS 2017, the aircraft climbed to altitude to drop a number of parachuters. Amit Agronov Photos
This year, MAKS 2017 took place from July 18 to 23, attracting more than 450,000 visitors, according to an official estimate. Show organizers reported that over 880 companies took part in the salon, among them around 180 foreign manufacturers from 36 countries. An estimated 394 billion rubles (US $6.6 billion) in fixed contracts and letters of intent for Russian aircraft were signed at the show, including purchase agreements for more than 25 rotorcraft from Russian Helicopters, the state company that was created through the consolidation of Mil, Kamov, and other Russian helicopter manufacturers.
The Mi-28NE “Night Hunter” flew at MAKS this year for the first time. This modern attack helicopter is designed to carry out search-and-destroy operations against tanks, armored and un-armored vehicles, and enemy personnel in combat.
As usual, the flying displays were a highlight of the show, with 90 aircraft and eight aerobatic teams taking part in the flight program (and 116 aircraft on static display). Here’s a look at the helicopters that wowed the crowds at MAKS 2017, as captured by photographer Amit Agronov.
The Mi-171A2, top, an upgraded version of the versatile and best-selling Mi-8/17 series, is shown here alongside the multi-role Mi-38.
The Ka-52 “Alligator” is Russian Helicopters’ next-generation reconnaissance and combat helicopter, capable of providing target acquisition and designation, fire support, routine patrols, and escorts.
The Mi-35M is a modernized version of the Mi-24V combat helicopter. In addition to its attack capabilities, the aircraft can carry up to eight troops in its cabin.
The Ansat is a multi-purpose light civilian helicopter powered by 630-horsepower PW 207K Pratt & Whitney Canada engines. It comes in two different models, one with a fly-by-wire flight control system and the other with traditional hydro-mechanical flight controls.
The Mi-38 has been designed to accommodate a wide range of missions, from VIP and offshore passenger transport, to search-and-rescue and emergency medical services.
The Mi-35M is a modernized version of the Mi-24V combat helicopter. In addition to its attack capabilities, the aircraft can carry up to eight troops in its cabin.
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