Russian Helicopters tests Mi-171A2 flying lab
Russian Helicopters has completed the second phase of preliminary flight tests of its Mi-171A2 flying laboratory, it announced on 21 May. In total, 67 ground runs and 72 flights were carried out at the Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant.
The second phase saw the installation of VK-2500PS-03 engines and BARK-6V7S digital regulation and control systems, anti-torque and a modified stabiliser. The tests reviewed these systems with a view to carrying out additional certification testing on the aircraft.
According to the company, the results from the preliminary flight tests confirmed that the helicopter's performance characteristics met those specified by the design documentation.
The Mi-171A2 flying laboratory is currently being re-equipped for tethered ground testing. This next phase will focus on rotor transmission and control mechanisms and check to see if they meet flight regulation AP-29.
At the same time, the first Mi-171A2 prototype will undergo preliminary tests, with 42 of the 178 flights currently complete. The second prototype is undergoing final preparations as it is readied to be incorporated into the flight test programme.
The first and second Mi-171A2 prototypes come with an integrated digital KBO-17 avionics suite by Ulyanovsk Instrument Design Bureau, unlike the flying laboratory. The glass cockpit design avionics suite enables the helicopter to fly in day and night and in regular and difficult weather conditions.
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