MOSCOW (Sputnik) – Moscow and New Delhi will sign a contract on the delivery of 200 Ka-226 multirole helicopters as well as Mi-171A2 helicopter in several months, Russian Helicopters CEO Andrei Boginsky told Sputnik.
"We will sign a contract on the delivery of 200 Ka-226 helicopters for the Indian Defense Ministry later this year, but most likely in early 2018," Boginsky said.
According to Boginsky, an India-based joint venture which will provide the helicopter assembly and service maintenance, is currently operating successfully.
READ MORE: India, Russia Poised to Ink $1 Bln Deal in 2018 For Kamov-226T
The Ka-226 series of helicopters are designed by the Kamov Design Bureau, part of Russian Helicopters company. It is a lightweight, twin-engine utility helicopter, which features an interchangeable mission pod, allowing the use of various payload configurations.
Russian Helicopters manufacturer waits for 1st payment from #India under Ka-226 delivery deal https://t.co/cYGPUqzxDR #RussianArmy #military pic.twitter.com/2mab2Sk6i3
— Sputnik (@SputnikInt) 29 августа 2017 г.
The agreement between Russia and India on helicopter construction was signed in 2015. According to the document, Russian Helicopters organizes deliveries to India and localization of production in this country of Russian Ka-226T helicopters and its modifications in the amount of 200 units, at least 140 of which will be produced at the facilities of the joint venture in India.
Russian Helicopters will sign a contract with an Indian company during Dubai Airshow 2017 for the delivery of Mi-171A2 helicopters, Andrei Boginsky said, adding that "in parallel, we will certify Mi-171A2 in India."
"Mi-171A2 is the newest multi-purpose, mid-range helicopter, combining tjhe unique experience in the operation of Mi-8/17 helicopters and the latest technical solutions. The Mi-171A2 offers the highest level of reliability, safety and comfort. This helicopter sets new standards for mid-range helicopters," the website of Russian Helicopters says.