ULAN-UDE (Sputnik) – The helicopters are said to be equipped with auxiliary power installation SAFIR, a rescue hoist and external load sling system that allows carrying up to four metric tons of large-size cargo.
"The People's Republic of China is a major operator of Russian helicopters in the Asia-Pacific region. Mi-171 that are being prepared for delivery are fitted with modern equipment that may be useful, primarily, for protection of forests and fighting wildfires," Alexander Shcherbinin, the deputy CEO for marketing and business development, said, as cited in the statement.
Earlier this month, the Russian Helicopters signed a contract with another Chinese company – China's Wuhan Rand Aviation Technology Service — on the delivery of five Ansat, Ka-32 and Mi-171 helicopters, with an option for 13 additional units.