Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant
Mil Mi-171
The Mil Mi‑171 is a versatile medium‑lift transport helicopter developed by the Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant as an upgraded version of the Mi‑8 series. First flying in 1996, the Mi‑171 entered service in the late 1990s and quickly became a cornerstone for both military and civilian operators worldwide. Its airframe retains the proven twin‑engine configuration of its predecessor, but incorporates a more powerful Turbomeca (formerly Klimov) VK‑2500 engine, advanced composite rotor blades, and an upgraded avionics suite that includes digital flight control and night‑vision compatibility. The aircraft can carry up to 24 passengers, 4,000 kilograms of cargo, or be equipped with a range of mission kits such as medical evacuation, firefighting, or armed support. With a maximum speed of 260 km/h, a ceiling of 6,000 meters and a range exceeding 1,200 kilometers, the Mi‑171 offers exceptional performance in diverse environments, from arctic tundra to desert heat. Its reliability, low operating cost, and adaptability have made it a preferred platform for over 30 nations, reinforcing the Mil design legacy and cementing the Mi‑171’s role as a key workhorse in modern rotary‑wing aviation.
