Description:
The Mil Mi-26, Halo NATO-codename, is a day/night, all-weather, heavyweight helicopter designed to transport troops, vehicles, and cargo as well as to perform medical evacuation missions. Additional airlift capability is provided using an external sling. The Mi-26 is the world's largest helicopter with an impressive 20,000 kg payload capacity and 14 unmatched world records.
The Mi-26 follows traditional helicopter scheme with an eight-blade main rotor and five-blade tail rotor. It is powered by two D-136 engines providing 10,000-hp each with reduced fuel consumption. The crew cabin has been hardened to withstand small arms impact, redundant sub-systems and special protection for hot-parts as well as other measures ensure enhanced survivability for the valuable Mi-26 helicopter. It can be fitted with engine exhaust heat suppressers and chaff/flare dispensers to improve survivability.
The Mi-26 rear compartment can accommodate one armored vehicle through a loading ramp provided to facilitate loading and unloading operations. Up to 82 fully equipped troops can be transported inside a single Mi-26 helicopter and the medical evacuation configuration (Mi-26MS) allows to accommodate 60 casualties with medical equipment and one operation room.
The Mi-26 Halo cargo helicopter, also known as Mi-26T, was introduced in the Soviet Army in 1983 replacing Mi-6 Hook helicopters. The Mi-26TS is a variant designed for the civilian market. Mi-26TZ is tanker helicopter and Mi-26M is an improved version intended for replacement of remaining Mi-6 helicopters in the Russian Army. According to Mil around 280 Mi-26 helicopters were produced from 1982 through 1999.
Specifications Accommodation: Crew 5, Passengers 82
Dimensions: Height 8.2 m, Length 33.8 m, Main Rotor Diameter 32 m, Width 6.2 m
Weights: Max Weight 56,000 kg (123,457 lb), Payload 20,000 kg (44,092 lb)
Performance: Ceiling 4,600 m (15,092 ft), Cruise Speed 71 mps (256 kph), Max Range 800 km (432 nm), Min Range 590 km (319 nm), Top Speed 82 mps (295 kph)
India
Peru
Russia
Ukraine
Venezuela / 3