What type of helicopter Russia produce

 Russia, a significant global player in the aerospace industry, primarily produces helicopters through its state-owned holding company, Russian Helicopters, which is part of Rostec. This conglomerate encompasses renowned design bureaus such as Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant and Kamov Design Bureau, whose names are synonymous with the nation's rotorcraft achievements. Russian helicopters are known for their ruggedness, reliability, and versatility, operating in various roles ranging from heavy-lift transport to dedicated attack missions, and are widely exported to over 100 countries.

Among the most iconic and widely operated Russian helicopters is the Mil Mi-8/17 series. This multi-role helicopter, often referred to as the "workhorse," is one of the most widely produced helicopters in history. It serves in numerous capacities, including troop transport, cargo delivery, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and even as a gunship in its armed variants (like the Mi-17V-5). Its robust design allows it to operate effectively in diverse and challenging environments, from high altitudes to hot and dusty regions, making it a staple in both military and civilian fleets globally. The latest iteration, the Mi-171A2, incorporates advanced avionics and improved performance characteristics.

For heavy-lift operations, Russia produces the Mil Mi-26T, the world's heaviest and most powerful production helicopter. Capable of transporting up to 20 tons of cargo internally or on an external sling, the Mi-26 is a true aerial giant. It is employed for a wide range of missions, including tactical military transport, disaster relief, infrastructure development in remote areas, and even the transportation of oversized equipment that would be impossible for other aircraft. Its immense capacity and reliability are unparalleled.

In the realm of attack helicopters, Russia fields two prominent models: the Mil Mi-28 "Havoc" and the Kamov Ka-52 "Alligator." The Mi-28 is a dedicated attack helicopter designed for anti-armor operations, featuring extensive armor protection, advanced targeting systems, and a formidable array of weaponry including missiles, rockets, and a 30mm cannon. It emphasizes survivability and close air support. The Ka-52, on the other hand, is a unique two-seat, co-axial rotor attack helicopter. Its co-axial rotor system provides exceptional maneuverability, especially in confined spaces, and it is highly agile. The Ka-52 is equipped with sophisticated avionics, advanced weaponry, and is often employed for reconnaissance, target acquisition, and direct fire support, with a navalized variant (Ka-52K Katran) also in development.

Beyond the heavy and attack categories, Russia produces a range of utility and light multi-role helicopters. The Kamov Ka-32A11BC is a heavy utility helicopter known for its coaxial rotor system, which provides excellent stability and lifting capability, particularly for external load operations like firefighting and complex construction tasks. The Kazan Ansat is a light twin-engine, multi-role helicopter that has found applications in emergency medical services (HEMS), corporate transport, and law enforcement due to its versatility, spacious cabin, and modern avionics. Another notable light helicopter is the Kamov Ka-226T, also featuring a coaxial rotor system and known for its reliability and ability to operate in challenging conditions, making it suitable for medical and transportation missions, often in high-altitude environments.

Furthermore, Russian Helicopters is continuously developing new models and upgrading existing ones. The Mil Mi-38, a medium-class multi-role helicopter, is designed to bridge the gap between the Mi-8/17 series and the Mi-26, offering improved performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort for both civilian and military applications. Projects like the Ka-62 medium-class helicopter are also aimed at the international market, focusing on modern materials and advanced systems. In essence, Russia's helicopter production capabilities cover a broad spectrum, providing robust and often unique solutions for various operational demands worldwide.