Russian Defense Ministry to Become First Customer of New Mi-38 Helicopter

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — Russia's Defense Ministry will become the first costumer to purchase the Mil Mi-38 multirole helicopter, Russian Helicopters company said Thursday.

"The Russian Defense Ministry will become the first costumer to procure the new Mi-38 multirole helicopter designed at the Kazan Helicopters plant, which is a part of the Russian Helicopters company," the company's press service said.

The parameters of inclusion of the helicopter in the next state armament program are currently being discussed, the company added. The new helicopter is expected to pass several flight tests to confirm compliance with the army's requirements.

According to the company, the multirole helicopter can carry both cargo and passengers, and can be used in search-and-rescue missions and as flying hospital, as well as for offshore operations. The aircraft is designed to operate in a wide range of climates, including maritime, tropical and cold environments.

Russian Helicopters, a subsidiary of Oboronprom (part of Rostec corporation) is a global leader in the field of helicopter manufacture and the only developer and manufacturer of helicopters in Russia.