Science Thread

Soldier30

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Flight tests of the Ka-226T helicopter with a Russian-made VK-650V engine have begun in Russia. The helicopter's maiden 20-minute flight included taxiing, hovering, and maneuvering. Stability, controllability, and component loads were tested. The tests confirmed the normal operation of the helicopter's powerplant and systems. The VK-650V is the first certified Russian engine for light helicopters up to 4 tons. The Ka-226T is modular; by replacing the rear module, it can be converted into a passenger, cargo, or medical evacuation helicopter. Module replacement takes no more than 45 minutes.

 

Soldier30

Captain
Registered Member
Russian Helicopters has delivered the first three production Mi-171A3 helicopters to Gazprom Avia. The helicopters have already flown from the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant to Sakhalin Island, where they will be used to transport people and cargo to offshore fields. To ensure enhanced safety during offshore operations, the Mi-171A3 is equipped with an emergency ditching system and life rafts, allowing for emergency landings on water in an emergency. Furthermore, the helicopter is equipped with a crash-resistant fuel system, preventing fuel leakage and fire in the event of an emergency landing. The primary purpose of the Mi-171A3 is overwater flights at long distances from shore to support offshore platforms, transport personnel and cargo, and conduct rescue operations. The Mi-171A3 helicopter can be converted into a search and rescue version by installing a winch, medical modules, a searchlight, and other equipment.



Mi-171A3 Helicopter Specifications

Powerplant: Two VK-2500PS-03 gas turbine engines, each producing 2,000 hp. In emergency mode (2.5 minutes), the engine power is at least 2,700 hp. The engines are equipped with a FADEC-type electronic digital control system (BARK-6V-7Ts ACS).

Length (with main and tail rotors) - 25.3 m;
Length (excluding rotors) - 19.9 m;
Main rotor diameter - 21.3 m;
Tail rotor diameter - 3.9 m;
Helicopter height - 5.6 m.

Maximum takeoff weight - 13 tons; Normal takeoff weight: 11.6 tons.
Maximum speed: 280 km/h;
Cruising speed: 250 km/h;
Service range: up to 1,000 km; 820 km with a 2-ton payload.

Flight altitude and service ceiling: 6,000 meters;
Hovering ceiling: 3,980 meters.

The helicopter can carry up to 16–19 passengers over water; up to 24 passengers over land.
Cargo capacity: up to 4 tons in the cargo cabin;
up to 5 tons on an external sling.
 
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