Unknown light multirole helicopter project Mi-60MAI reported (220 words)

Published: 8/7/2000

According to recent reports Mil is continuing with the development of a twin seat helicopter, the Mi-60MAI, which was originally ordered by the State Committee for Science and Engineering in 1993, and initially developed by the Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) and Mil. The previously unheard of multipurpose helicopter, which will weigh between 700-800 kg, is intended for training and a broad range of general application such as observation duties that do not require a powerful or sophisticated helicopter. The helicopter will potentially be powered by the Textron Lycoming 160hp O-320-B2C, Aviadvigatel D-150, or by two Rotax 914P. The helicopter, which will include a high level of composite material according to its designer, will have a large amount of glass in the cabin for all round visibility. The helicopter will dispense with bearings on its rotor connections according to Mil, replacing them with what are described as “elastic elements”. Power will be provided to the rotor through a transmission shaft on the main reduction gearbox, with the tail rotor powered similarly through the tail reduction gearbox. The helicopter will have double unassisted controls. The timetable for the production of the aircraft however, remains unknown at this point.

Article ID: 1965