Test flights on the upgraded aircraft

Published: 6/13/2000

Klimov have rolled out the first re-engined Mi-24V/VM currently being upgraded by Mil and Rosvertol under a programme due to be completed by the end of 2001. The test flights, which took place on 30th May, are part of a programme designed to give the Russians a viable competitor against other upgrades of the helicopter being undertaken by other aerospace companies notably the Israelis. The new engine, derived from the TBZ-117BMA by Klimov with the assistance of Motor-Sich, offers the helicopter an improvement in take-off rating of 10% over the original TV3-117MT turboshafts, with a life limit of 7,500 hours and increased period between maintenance due to the incorporation of a better compressor turbine and other engine parts, according to Klimov. The operational ceiling for the new helicopter has been raised by 1000m and the upgrade should also improve its operation in high-temperature conditions. According to Rosvertol, the new engine may be available in 2000 and potentially the plant could produce new helicopters with this engine during 2000, although the upgrade programme is unlikely to start before 2002. Mil believes that the new engines along with other upgrades of armament and avionics will extend the lives of the helicopter by three to five years within the Russian armed forces and offers the producers a viable upgrade package for the large number of Mi-24s in operation with numerous air forces.

Article ID: 1860