Article Posted on : - Jun 14, 2017

Mi-8AMTSh helicopter. Photo: Russian Helicopters.

MOSCOW (TASS-DEFENCE): The Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant (part of the Russian Helicopters Holding Company) has delivered another batch of Mi-8AMTSH military transport helicopters to the Russian Ministry of Defence ahead of schedule, the holding's press service reported.

"The equipment has successfully passed the types of tests stipulated by the terms of the state contract and technical documentation and has been accepted by the Ministry of Defence's military mission and acceptance group. The helicopters have already arrived at their permanent deployment sites and are involved in carrying out missions to strengthen the defensive capacity of our country," the holding said.

Transport-assault helicopter Mi-8AMTSH (NATO reporting name: Hip) is a modernised variant of Mi-8military transport helicopter, designed to destroy enemy equipment, including armoured vehicles, shelters and fire points, manpower.

Along with unguided weapons, the mix of ammunition used by the Mi-8AMTSH includes also precision-guided weapons, in particular the 9M120 Ataka or 9M114 Sturm anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM). The helicopter can transport up to 37 paratroopers, up to 12 wounded on stretchers or transport up to 4 tons of cargo, perform search and rescue and evacuation operations.

The helicopter is powered by two higher-power VK-2500 engines. It is equipped with a self-defence system. The cockpit of the new helicopter is fitted with multi-functional displays that display a digital map, and the latest flight navigation equipment compatible with GPS and GLONASS navigation systems.

Mi-8AMTSH helicopters are also distinguished by improved life indicators, including significant savings on maintenance during the life cycle of the helicopter.