Sino-Russian agreement on AHL

An agreement between China and Russia on development of a new heavy helicopter is “virtually confirmed”. In May 2015, the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and the Russian Helicopters Corporation signed a framework co-

operation agreement on common development of a new-generation Advanced Heavy-Lift (AHL) helicopter, to be powered by two engines with a maximum take-off weight of 38,200kg (84,216lb) including a 10,000 kg (22,046lb) payload carried inside the cabin or 15,000kg (33,069lb) slung externally. Design requirements include a maximum speed of 163 kts (300km/h) and a service ceiling of 18,700 ft (5,700m) and a range of 340nm (630km). Russia is expected to complete the preliminary design and develop critical systems including rotors and transmissions, China, in turn, will undertake detailed design, testing, certification and series production of the helicopter. The Ukrainian company Ivchenko Progress is proposing development of the AI-8000V engine rated at 7,600hp (5,590kW) for the AHL helicopter.