Russia has launched a program to develop a new multi-mission helicopter that will replace the Mi-8 and Mi-17 family models, known for the lack of standardization among the different factories that produce them.
Currently, the Kazan and Ulan-Ude facilities manufacture versions with similar features but incompatible designs and parts, which complicates maintenance and logistics, especially in military operations intensified by the war in Ukraine.
The initial project considered the Mi-171A3 as a base, but it did not meet the range and cost expectations of many users, despite being praised by the crew. As a result, Russian Helicopters is studying a new model, provisionally called Mi-80, which will use the Mi-171A3 structure but with improvements in avionics, rotor, and engines, as well as an increase in the maximum takeoff weight to 14 tons.
The expectation is that the new helicopter will unify production between the Kazan and Ulan-Ude factories, reduce costs, and fully replace the Mi-8 line by 2030. However, the project is still in the technical definition phase and depends on funding approval, with development estimated to take at least five years.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @PStyle0ne1 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
