Mi-8AMTSh-VA is an adapted version of the Mi-8AMTSh helicopter in order to operate in sub-zero conditions. Among its main features is the presence of a unique oil and transmission units heating system, which allows the engine to start at temperatures as low as —76 Fahrenheit.
"Technical solutions implemented in the Arctic helicopter Mi-8AMTSh-VA can be applied not only to Defense Ministry uses but also for civil projects. These helicopters might be of interest to companies whose activities are related to the Arctic and northern latitudes, particularly, oil and gas, exploration and transport companies," it was noted in the press release.
The Russian Armed Forces are due to receive nine Mi-8 military transport helicopters, including three Mi-8AMTSh-VA, by the end of the year. Two more Arctic-ready versions of the Mi-8 are expected to enter into the service of the Russian Armed Forces in 2017.
Russian Helicopters is a leading player in the global helicopter industry and one of the few companies worldwide with the capability of designing, manufacturing, servicing and testing modern civilian and military helicopters, according to the company's website.
The second international military and technical forum Army-2016, organized by the Russian Defense Ministry, kicked off on Tuesday in Kubinka, a western suburb of Moscow, bringing together over 1,000 representatives from the Russian defense industry, research institutes, universities, as well as 80 foreign delegations.
