Russian Helicopters to be part of DefExpo 2016

PANAJI: Rostec State Corporation's Russian Helicopters will be part of the four-day DefExpo to be held in Goa from March 28, where its Mi-38 and Ka-226Ts models will be on display.

"We intend to strengthen our market position in South Asia, increasing sales of serial production and offering comprehensive after-sales service of helicopters. India currently operates more than 400 Russian-made helicopters and plans to expand its fleet," said Alexander Mikheyev, General Director of Russian Helicopters.

The product line of the holding Russian Helicopters on DefExpo India 2016 will present multipurpose helicopters-- medium transport Mi-38 and the light utility Ka-226T, he added.

"Fitted with trademark Kamov coaxial rotors, the manoeuvrable, compact Ka-226T is designed to perform transport and special missions in any weather, at any time of the day," Mikheyev said.

Due to the absence of a tail rotor, the helicopter is safe for use on small pads and in complex terrain. Ka-226T can be used as health, police, search and rescue, passenger and transport helicopter, he added.

Russia and India have already begun the implementation of the helicopter project cooperation agreement signed in December 2015, which provides for the joint production of at least 200 units of the Ka-226T.

He said Ka-226T will be showcased in a medical version to the visitors at the DefExpo. In this version, the chopper is equipped with a stretcher to transport the injured, oxygen cylinders and the necessary medical equipment for providing first aid to the victims. For medical personnel, there are folding seats in the cabin of Ka-226T.