The Mi-8AMTSh is a dedicated armored assault version of the Mi-8AMT helicopter. Sometimes it is nicknamed the Terminator. Its armament is derived from Mi-24 gunship and carries some armor. It made its first flight in 1996. It was first publicly demonstrated in 1999. First helicopters were delivered to Russian Air Force in 2009. Estimated Russian military requirement is for about 200 new assault transport helicopters.

   Main role of this helicopter is to carry cargo and troops and support them with its firepower. It can also perform evacuation and combat search and rescue. It can soften-up enemy defenses before landing. This helicopter can engage enemy infantry, armored vehicles and even main battle tanks. Also it has secondary air-to-air capability against low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs.

   This helicopter can carry 4 000 kg of payload in its cargo compartment. Alternatively it can carry loads up to 4 000 kg externally. The Mi-8AMTSh can carry 26 troops. There are two trainable 7.62 mm machine guns hidden behind doors and operated by the passengers. Cargo area can be easily transformed for medical evacuation role. In this role helicopter can carry 12 stretchers and one medical attendant.

   Two stub-wings have a total of 12 hardpoints for various types of weapons. It can carry various types of guided missiles, unguided rockets podded cannons and machine guns. This helicopter can carry Shturm-V (AT-6) or Ataka-V (AT-9) anti-tank missiles. Also it can carry Igla-V (SA-18) air-to-air missiles.

   This helicopter has a crew of three. One of them is a gunner and aims various weapons. A sighting system is located under the nose.

   This assault transport helicopter is fitted with updated and more powerful engines. It also has new structurally improved rotor blades.

   Comparing with the earlier Mi-8 series helicopters the Mi-8AMTSh has improved avionics and modernized electronic core. It can operate at night and in all weather conditions. It is equipped with GPS and Russian GLONASS satellite navigation systems. It is also fitted with weather radar.

Variants

   Mi-8AMTSh-1 assault transport helicopter with VIP interior. It retains its weapons;

   Mi-171Sh is an export model. It is also referred as the Terminator. It can be seen as an assault transport version of the Mi-17 series. It is in service with Bangladesh, Croatia, Czech Republic, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Peru, and, some other countries. It is worth noting that the Mi-8/Mi-17 series helicopters are popular due to their good value for money. Countries with limited military funding use such machines instead of dedicated attack helicopters. Also these helicopters are easy to maintain.

Article by ZAAL TCHKUASELI    Want to publish your own articles? Visit our guidelines for more information.