Russian Helicopters, part of state defence holding Oboronprom and a leading global designer and manufacturer of helicopters, has made its first civil medium multirole Mi-171 helicopter delivery to Indonesia. One of the largest mining companies acquired this certificated Mi-171 built by the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant.

The new medium multirole Mi-171 can be deployed in various climates and temperature ranges – an important competitive advantage that was a deciding factor in the choice of an advanced Russian helicopter for use in Indonesia.

Mi-171 series helicopters can be used to carry passengers and cargo, for geological surveying and patrol missions, and for fire-fighting and transfers to offshore drilling platforms.

The helicopter is equipped with advanced flight and navigation systems and additional radio equipment to guarantee heightened levels of safety and improved operational characteristics.

The Asia-Pacific region is a major driver of growth for helicopters. Of the 1,200 registered Russian-built helicopters operating in the region, more than 700 are from the Mi-8/17 series and almost 20 of this type for the military use in Indonesia. Russian Helicopters is the market leader in the region, with its nearest competitors, Sikorsky and AgustaWestland, operating 500 and 400 helicopters, respectively.

Customers appreciate the Mi-171’s unique operational characteristics, versatility, reliability and ease of operation. The Mi-171’s range of possible uses is constantly being expanded and upgraded.

Russian Helicopters is actively expanding its relationships with partners in Indonesia. The Indonesian client is currently considering acquisition of an additional batch of Russian-built civil helicopters following the first delivery in October.