The first flight model of the new Mi-171A2 helicopter was tested in 2014, demonstrating good operational capabilities. Currently, the fifth prototype is being prepared, after testing which Moscow specialists will be able to decide on possible improvements to the device. The model is multifunctional, therefore, further development of the platform on which the helicopter was based is not ruled out. The photo below shows the appearance of the current modification 171A2.
Modification Overview
The model is produced by the Ulan-Ude aircraft factory, from which the first samples for testing were obtained. The development is one of the most anticipated innovations in the domestic helicopter industry in recent years. Although the machine is largely an original creation of designers, its basis is still the base of multi-purpose devices Mi-17. At the same time, the Mi-171A2 helicopter has modern flight technical capabilities, an increased level of autonomy and safety.
The creators of the modification sought to preserve all the best qualities of the previous generations of the family, but also made adjustments to the demands of today. On the one hand, this made it possible to optimize the characteristics of the technical platform, and on the other, to raise the level of electronic filling and balance ergonomic properties. It is worth noting that the Mi-171A2 version was developed by groups of engineers and designers in close cooperation with machine operators, which made it possible to implement a fairly high degree of comfort during the operation of the equipment. To a large extent this was facilitated by the introduction of electronic assistants and digital systems.
Differences from previous generations
The device was designed with the expectation of not only the Mi-17, but also on the model of the Mi-8 line. Although these families have a lot in common, there are a number of differences. The new device has absorbed the best qualities of these representatives of the aircraft complex, but also received many serious additions. In particular, this applies to the carrier platform. The Mi-171A2 was also equipped with an X-shaped tail rotor, an improved bearing sleeve and an updated swashplate. It is noteworthy that in some cases the new parts are made of composite materials, which added to the reliability of the device.
Structural improvements could not but affect operational performance. For example, the model demonstrates high rates of controllability and high-torque propeller. There are also notable changes in terms of autonomy that the new helicopter has. The photo below shows the basic version of the model, whose flight range is 650 km. However, in the new modification, the helicopter allows you to overcome distances of up to 800 km.
Key Specifications
The device is a representative of the middle class and is designed for multi-use. The designers had a difficult task to balance such qualities of the model as practicality, ergonomics and functionality. In many ways, these qualities were combined in the Mi-171A2 - the characteristics of the machine confirm this:
- Take-off weight is a maximum of 13 tons.
- With a load on the external suspension - a maximum of 13.5 tons.
- The payload in the cargo compartment is 4 tons.
- Suspension load - 5 t.
- Cabin length - 636 cm.
- Cabin width - 234 cm.
- The height of the apparatus is 180 cm.
- The volume in the cabin is 23 m 3 .
- Passenger capacity - up to 24 people.
- Flight crew - 1-2 people.
- Operating temperatures - from -50 to 50 ° C.
Power plant specifications
The power plant is one of the main advantages of the modification. The complex is formed by several gas turbine engines of the VK-2500PS-03 series. Speaking of the introduction of modern technologies - the units are provided with an electronic system for setting operating parameters and control, as well as the Safir APU device, which allows the installation to be launched at an altitude of up to 6 km. On take-off mode, the power potential of the Mi-171A2 is 2400 liters. with., and the emergency format of operation increases power to 2700 l. from. As for the dynamic indicators, the helicopter's maximum speed in the normal use program reaches 280 km / h, and in cruising mode - 260 km / h.
Helicopter Features
The helicopter is notable for many characteristics. The developers have introduced many new systems whose work is aimed at improving the safety, ease of operation and overall reliability of the machine. The main technical and structural features of the Mi-171A2 helicopter include an upgraded carrier platform and an improved transmission. This made it possible to achieve a wide range of tasks and facilitate maintenance activities. From the point of view of operators and flight personnel as a whole, the introduction of an integrated flight and navigation complex is especially significant. The new generation avionics also contributes to the comfort and convenience of operating the helicopter. If we talk about the advantage of maintaining this helicopter, then it consists in reducing the cost of flight hours.
Operational capabilities
The machine is designed to perform a wide range of tasks. Both the refinement of the design and the optimization of the power plant were subordinated to the needs of multi-purpose operation. As a result, the new helicopter can be used both in high altitude conditions and when exposed to elevated temperatures. Thanks to the above navigation and navigation system, the operator can operate the machine day and night, regardless of weather conditions. Moreover, even flights above the water surface are not a serious hazard. The stable operation of navigation, coupled with the functions of advanced electronic equipment, allows you to maximize the use of helicopter resources in any conditions. By the way, in addition to automation, the capabilities of flight crews are expanding. This, in particular, is facilitated by the unusual implementation of the “glass” cabin.
Future model improvements
At the moment, the device is being tested in the flight laboratory. The designers left the first few prototypes unchanged, and one of the variations of the model should receive new blades for the steering and rotor. It is assumed that in the future Russian helicopters of this modification will be produced in several specialized versions. In particular, a search and rescue, transport, fire-fighting, passenger and medical-evacuation version should appear. In accordance with the directions of use, developers will systematically make configuration changes. However, the basis of the model is more likely to remain the same, and improvements will focus on the modernization of technical and optional equipment and the expansion of the configuration.
Helicopter outlook
Interest in the new helicopter is manifested from different sides. For example, the model can expand the capabilities of modern business, which is already confirmed by representatives of the Russian oil and gas industry. According to experts, the aircraft’s flight technical capabilities make it possible to effectively perform work in remote areas, while realizing specialized tasks. All new generation helicopters will have such features, and the 171A2 modification in this series will be one of the first. According to some reports, the model can find application not only at traditional sites for the domestic market, but also in the Asia-Pacific region. True, in the near future, the Ulan-Ude plant plans to cooperate with market participants from the CIS countries.
Conclusion
The Mi-171 family of helicopters has many modifications, special series and VIP versions. Most of them relate to highly specialized equipment or take the place of an operational tool in a specific area. However, Russian helicopters of the 171A2 line will have a fundamental difference. The fact is that this is a multi-purpose platform focused on an average level of operational requirements. This is the most popular segment in modern helicopter manufacturing, so the designers tried to make the device as reliable, safe and at the same time profitable from a practical point of view. Even in addition to the main directions of development of this helicopter, serious processing of the base is not ruled out in the near future. This will be facilitated by the development of technological potential and the increase in the capacity of the enterprise in Ulan-Ude. To this, it is worth adding a clear interest in new developments from the market.