Russia presents its helicopters in Aero India

Russian Helicopters has outlined some of its latest models at Aero India 2013, which runs from 6 to 10 February in Bangalore.

Multirole helicopters Ka-226T and Mi-171A2 are the main Russian models presented for the Indian market is booming. The Ka-226T with its single coaxial rotor (pictured above) is currently competing in a major tender for the purchase of helicopters for recognition by the Indian Air Force. In December 2012, Russian Helicopters has signed an agreement in New Delhi with Elcom Systems in India to establish a joint venture for the assembly Russian helicopters in India as the Ka-226T.

The other model is the civilian helicopter Mi-171A2, the latest version of the series Mi-8/17 which is one of the most popular helicopters in the world. Nearly 200 Mi-8/17 are made in India, and the demand for these aircraft remains strong. Russian Helicopters has recently signed a new contract for Mi-17V-5 in favor of the Indian Air Force. The contract should be honored in 2013.

Finally, Russian Helicopters also presents its attack helicopter Mi-28NE Night Hunter. This combat helicopter can operate day and night and in all weathers. It can fight against tanks, armored vehicles and non-armored vehicles and enemy forces on the battlefield and air targets at low speed.

Russia is losing ground

The Aero India comes at a difficult time for Russian arms exports.

"Unfortunately we lost a lot of markets following the conflicts and civil wars in the Middle East, North Africa and the Middle East," said Alexander Fomin, Director of the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSVTS) on the eve of the opening of the exhibition.

For example, the director of FSVTS cited the suspension of military-technical cooperation with Libya and reduced deliveries of weapons and military equipment to Egypt and Iran.

"As for Syria, it prevents us to cooperate with this country, and there is no doubt. We also lost Iraq and Afghanistan have virtually lost, "added Mr. Fomin.

In contrast, Russia "has acquired new markets in many other regions," he said, citing as an example Venezuela, Peru, Mali, Ghana, Tanzania, Uganda and Oman.

"Look how the international situation is tense. We are witnessing a struggle for the division of the world.Nevertheless, I believe that despite the fierce competition, our defense industry operates with dignity, "said the Russian official.