The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has received the final batch of Mi-17V-5 military transport helicopters from Russian Helicopters.The three new Mi-17V-5s were delivered as part of an agreement signed for the supply of 151 helicopters to the South-Asian nation in 2008. Russian Helicopter CEO Alexander Mikheev said: "India is one of the key markets for the Russian helicopter building industry and the largest operator of Russian-made helicopters in the South-East Asia. "Today, this country uses more than 400 helicopters, which have proved themselves well."We produce high-tech multirole helicopters capable of solving the most difficult tasks anywhere in the world."Equipped with a KNEI-8 avionics suite, each Mi-17V-5 helicopter features four large multi-functional systems that display all systems and consequently reduces pre-flight inspection time.Additionally, the helicopters feature the latest, powerful engines to increase its payload carriage capability at higher altitudes. The Indian MoD has revealed plans to acquire another 48 Mi-17V-5 helicopters to increase the military capabilities of the Indian armed forces. The helicopters will be designed to suite meet the needs of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Currently, air forces in US, Russia and Afghanistan operate the Mi-17V-5 aircraft. Recently, Russia and India agreed on co-producing approximately 200 light multirole Ka-226T helicopters. The decision will see the countries collaborate to produce 200 of the Ka-226T helicopters and their modifications at an undisclosed facility in India. The contract covers maintenance, operation, repairs of helicopters and provision of technical support.
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