Mi-8MTV1: another modernization of the Mi-8 version

The appearance of this version of the legendary Mi-8 is associated with the need for its further modernization. In 1985, tests of the new TV3-117VM power unit were completed, which they decided to install on the Mi-8MTV model, developed over a couple of years. In 1987, it successfully passed flight tests, and in 1988, the Kazan plant began serial production.


The updated vehicle was designed for use in extreme conditions, so it is natural that the military department became the main customer. In civilian life, the helicopter was successfully used in rescue operations, as well as for transportation in the harsh Arctic climate. The car was exported under the symbol Mi-171V.

Features of Mi-8MTV1

In fact, this is a further modification of the Mi-8T. In 1991, the production of the new product was mastered by an enterprise in Ulan-Ude. How was this model different from previous ones? It took into account the experience of operating the Mi-8 in Afghanistan and regions with difficult climates. The updated helicopter can be based at mountain (up to 4000 m) airfields and fly at altitudes up to 6000 m. One of the distinctive characteristics of the machine is that it remains operational at temperatures from -50° to +50°.


Range, speed, and load capacity, thanks to a more powerful engine, also increased: the first up to 500 km, the second was 250 km/h. Commercial load – 4 tons. Later, the car began to be equipped with a more modern power plant VK-2500-03.


The Mi-8MTV1 was equipped with the best avionics at that time, and the fuselage design was slightly changed. In the passenger version, the helicopter can accommodate 20 people, and in the ambulance version – six.

Operating experience

It must be said: the first models of this version of the Mi-8 were generally characterized as reliable and unpretentious. The same engine, according to Arctic helicopter pilots, with proper maintenance did not cause any complaints for several years during intensive, almost daily flights. However, in Arctic conditions, a “bunch” of annoying little things emerged that interfered with normal operation.


For example, the rubber from which the seals were made turned out to be unsuitable for frost: it cracked. Maintenance issues caused complaints: there were difficulties when pulling the tail shaft flanges (far and inconvenient), measuring the alignment and repositioning the inlet apparatus blades became problematic. All this was subsequently taken into account.

Today's version of the car

At the beginning of the 2020s, another modification of the Mi-8MTV1 was made, taking into account the requirements of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. The aircraft received updated avionics, including a flight navigation system. Now all flight modes have become automated. Pilots can use special glasses for flying at night, in low light conditions.


The load capacity remained the same - 4 tons, a 300 kg winch was added, and the suspension was improved. To monitor the latter, it has its own video camera. To increase the range (now it can reach up to 800 km), a pair of additional fuel tanks are installed. Without them, the car will cover 620 km. The autonomous deployment time of the Mi-8MTV1 is five hours.


Passenger capacity increased to 24 people. The lighting equipment has been updated: it now consists of LED elements. The optical devices were tested and certified: the procedure was carried out by the developer, the Micropribor Research Institute. In total, forty additions and changes of various nature were made to the design.