MOSCOW. March 3 (Interfax-AVN) - The Kazan helicopter plant may take part in the development of the Mil design bureau's MI-52 light helicopter, a competent source in the Russian defense industry told Interfax-Military News Agency.
"The management of the Kazan helicopter plant is interested in participation in the development and mass production of the MI- 52 light helicopter. If the aircraft's designer, the Moscow-based Mil helicopter plant, fails to raise the required funds, the project may be transferred for implementation to the Kazan helicopter plant," the source said.
According to him, the Russian fleet of light helicopters consists of about 400-500 KA-26 Hoodlum and MI-2 Hoplite aircraft that are outdated and worn-out. He said the demand for such helicopters on the Russian market amounts for nearly the same number for the next 10 years.
"In case the domestic industry fails to offer its products, the Russian market may be filled with helicopters of foreign make," the expert said.
The Kazan plant's management proceeds from the high demand for light helicopters on the Russian market in developing and mastering mass production of Ansat and Aktai light helicopters and in displaying interest in the MI-52 program.
The MI-52 is intended for transporting five people, including four passengers. Passenger seats are to have an up-to- date design allowing the helicopter to make a crash landing from an altitude of 15m. The fuel system is being designed to meet present-day requirements concerning fuel blast prevention in crash landing.