Russian Helicopters’ CEO discusses cooperation with Nirmala Sitharaman

This joint venture established in June of 2017 will carry out assembly and repair operations and also be an integrator for Indian suppliers.

Making his business trip to India, ‘Russian helicopters’ CEO Andrey Boginskiy is going to meet India’s defense minister Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss the Ka-226T helicopter project in India. Specifically, they will negotiate when to sign a contract and what production facility to use for a JV manufacturing Ka-226T helicopters.

Boginskiy will also discuss  Sitharaman possibilities to increase import of helicopters to India and to arrange after sales maintenance for helicopters manufactured in Russia and the supply of spare parts and components.

“Meetings at that high level are very important for our company, as they allow to establish direct relationship with our key partners, and India is undoubtedly is one of them. Our joint Ka-226T project is implemented in line with the schedule, however, much is to be done and we are at the very beginning. We also have a huge potential for developing after sales maintenance and we will certainly discuss this matter with Madam Minister,” noted Boginskiy.

A cooperation agreement in the field of helicopter production between India and Russia was signed in 2015. Accordingly, ‘Russian helicopters’ jointly with Rosoboronexport arranged supply and local production of Russian Ka-226T helicopter and its versions to the number of 200 units, of which at least 140 units must be manufactured by a joint venture located in India.

This joint venture established in June of 2017 will carry out assembly and repair operations and also be an integrator for Indian suppliers. Ka-226T with its coaxial propellers has a substantial power reserve and high climb capability that increase the helicopter’s hover ceiling. Aerodynamic symmetry and absence of cross-linkages in control channels make it easy to pilot the helicopter that is especially important for low-altitude flights. Such rotorcraft is more maneuverable at any speed. Ka-226T helicopter is very good for mountainous areas and at high air temperature. Its high performance characteristics and survivability are ensured by two powerful engines. In case of failure of one engine, the helicopter can keep on flying with the other. Ka-226T helicopter has good features designed by the Kamov design bureau: it has low level of vibrations, it’s modular, easy to operate, highly reliable and safe.