MI-8

Origin: Russia
Type: Utility and assault helicopter.
Accommodation: Four crew. Two pilots seat side-by-side along with one one engineer in the cockpit. A load master is usually carried in the cabin. 24 troops can be embarked in the cabin.
Design Features: A conventional semi-monocoque structure of pod and boom type. Tail rotor acts as a small vertical stabilizer at the end of the boom. The helicopter has a non-retractable tricycle type landing gear with differential braking for steering.
Rotor Span: 21.29m, length - ?, height - 5.65m and disc area - 356 m2.
Weights: Empty - 7260 kg (15,972 lbs.)
............Gross - 12,000 kg (26,400 lbs.)
Avionics: RR-842 HF R-860 radios, RV-3 radio altimeter, Doppler navigation systems and autopilot.
Engine: Two Isotov TV2-117A engines, each developing 1500 shp.
Speed: Maximum - 275 km/h (166 mph; 145 knots)
..........Max. cruising speed - 212 km/h (127 mph, 110 knots)
Service Ceiling: 4500 meters (14,760 ft.)
Range: Maximum - 625 nautical miles (1200km; 720 miles).
..........Operational - 248 nautical miles (475 km; 285 miles)
Armament: Fitted for a 12.7mm machine gun in the chin. Can also carry four UV-57 unguided rocket pods.
Self Defence: Provisions for dispenser containing flares or chaff cartridges.
Comments: For a long time the Mi-8 was the mainstay of the IAF's helicopter fleet. Progressively being replaced by the Mi-17.