Mi-8amtsh-Vn "Sapsan"

Based on the experience of the Syrian war, Russia has developed an upgraded version of the Mi-8 military transport helicopter with the designation Mi-8AMTSh-VN. Its predecessor, the Mi-8AMTSh-V, is called the Terminator, the Mi-8AMTSh-VN "Sapsan") is a specialized improved armored assault version designed for special forces. Earlier, the Ministry of Defense signed two contracts for their production, the agreement provided for the supply of 10 helicopters during 2021 and 2022. The Mi-8AMT is equipped with VK-2500PS-03 gas turbine engines (cruising 260 km/h, maximum 280 km/h) connected by an upgraded transmission, a redesigned main rotor with new composite blades is installed, the tail rotor adopted an X-shaped design that increased the characteristics of the helicopter. The main design difference of VK-2500PS-03 (and this is its main feature) is the presence of a digital control system of the FADEC type (electronic engine control system with full responsibility) - BARK-6B-7C developed by JSC ODK-Klimov. Performing the functions of a fire support helicopter, the Mi-8AMT is equipped with new weapons, which, in addition to the traditional, include guided missiles, as well as three 12.7 mm large-caliber Kord machine guns (two of them are mounted on an external suspension as coursework, the other in the doorway), as well as one aft 7.62mm machine gun. The Mi-8AMTSh-VN is armed with 8 ATGM "Ataka" (up to 6 km) with warheads of various types, including thermobaric ones. It is planned to use 4 advanced Hermes missiles (up to 20 km) and a standard NURS unit. The combat load is 1400 kg on six suspension units. In addition to the existing optoelectronic unit, a sighting and surveillance system was introduced under the nose of the fuselage, which is integrated into the guided weapons complex. To combat enemy helicopters, it is possible to use Igla/Willow air-to-air missiles. The maximum take-off weight of the car increased to 13.5 tons, the speed increased to 280 km / h flight speed. A powerful winch allows you to lift up to four people at the same time. By the way, during the Zapad-2021 exercises, the Mi-8, in addition to special forces, delivered a combat buggy to the place of operation - on an external suspension. Cabin ("glass") and the main components of the helicopter are covered with titanium alloy armor, and the cabin floor and sides to the portholes are covered with removable Kevlar armor from the inside. Mi-8AMTSh-VN There is a defense complex "Vitebsk", which automatically detects the launch of an enemy missile, puts interference, shoots off heat traps. All the radio-electronic equipment of the helicopter is combined with the on-board IBKV-17VP complex. It provides piloting and navigation of a combat vehicle day and night in simple and difficult weather conditions by a crew consisting of two pilots, instrumental approach, landing by GPS/ GLONASS signals, automatic control of helicopter equipment. The duplicated helicopter navigation computer system provides continuous calculation of the current coordinates of the helicopter location and correction according to autonomous navigation tools (automatic or at the command of the crew). Night vision devices are provided for flights at night. Some navigation, aerobatic and combat missions can be performed automatically or with minimal human involvement. One of the main objectives of the project as a whole was to reduce the load on the crew. It is planned that the Mi-8AMTSh-VN will be able to throw 37 paratroopers into the combat area or evacuate 12 wounded on stretchers. The main role of this helicopter will be the delivery of troops, including special forces to the place of execution of the combat mission and support them with their firepower. It can also perform evacuation and combat search and rescue operations. He can weaken the enemy's defenses before landing troops. This helicopter can hit infantry, armored vehicles and main battle tanks of the enemy. It also has a secondary air-to-air capability against low-flying aircraft, helicopters and UAVs.