JAKARTA. Nov 25 (Interfax-AVN) - The MI-26T Halo helicopter, displayed by the Rosoboronexport state-owned arms trading company at the INDODEFENSE 2004 EXPO & FORUM, being held in Jakarta, has generated interest among a number of Southeast Asian states.
"This helicopter is second to none across the globe. It is capable of airlifting a payload of up to 20 tons both internally or externally," Vadim Barannikov, Director for Foreign Economic Activities of the Rostov-on-Don-based Rostvertol Helicopter Plant, told Interfax-Military News Agency on Thursday.
He noted that the MI-26T had generated interest of delegations from Malaysia and Indonesia. The helicopter's multi-role capability is a most lucrative feature for potential customers.
According to Barannikov, the MI-26T multi-role capability is based on a wide range of additional removable equipment, allowing the helicopter to be transformed into one of the following versions on short notice: a troop carrier (capable of transporting 82 people with necessary hardware), a medevac version (capable of transporting 60 people on stretchers, escorted by three medics), a fire-fighting helicopter (equipped with the VSU-15 water-dispersing system and a special externally mounted 15 cubic meter tank), a tanker (capable of delivering 14,040 liters of diesel or aircraft fuel on short notice).
Barannikov emphasized that MI-26T helicopters had been employed in Somalia, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Congo under the UN auspices. The Russian helicopter suppressed fires and transported cargo in East Timor, and discharged missions in Germany, Greece, Italy, France, Cyprus, and other states. At the moment helicopters of this type are deployed in Congo, and Sierra Leone.
"Rostvertol jointly with the Moscow-based Mil Helicopter Plant constantly works on improving avionics and capabilities of the MI-26T. At the present time the helicopter is being provided with the day/night operation capability," Barannikov said.