International joint venture company Euromil is planning to assemble its Mi-38 twin-engined utility helicopter prototype in August 2001 and fly the Pratt & Whitney Canada PWC 127TS-powered aircraft four months later.
The aircraft will replace the in-service fleet of Russia-based Mi-8 and Mi-17 medium helicopters and take over some of the tasks now carried out by ageing Mi-6s. The aircraft will also offer a cheaper alternative to Western medium lift types such as the EH Industries EH101 and Sikorsky S-92.
Euromil comprises Russian helicopter manufacturers Mil and Kazan Helicopters as well as Eurocopter. Each partner holds an equal share in the company.
Each partner is responsible for specific tasks. Mil is responsible for the general design, drawings, component and flight testing. Kazan manufactures the fuselage and main rotor blades and conducts final assembly, and Eurocopter is avionics integrator.
According to Euromil, the Mi-38 makes use of technology tested on the Mil Mi-28 attack helicopter, inheriting its main rotor and transmission. The Mi-38 will carry up to 30 passengers, or 5t of cargo, to an estimated range of 300km (160nm) and will be cleared for single pilot operation in the cargo role.
Source: Flight International
