Russian Helicopters will test the Ka-32A11M fire helicopter. The tests are scheduled to be completed in 2023. After certification, the improved rotorcraft will be available to Russian and foreign customers. This is stated in the company's message.
The new SP-32 fire extinguishing system, developed by specialists of NCV Miles and Kamov together with KumAPP, has received a number of significant advantages. It has four compartments, holds 4 tons of water and up to 400 liters of foam agent. Thanks to a more powerful water intake system, the tank is automatically filled in just 60 seconds - 25% faster than in the previous version of the helicopter. The patented system of shutters with digital control allows you to open compartments in pairs or alternately, as well as adjust the opening angles of the shutters, thereby controlling the time of water discharge.
The Ka-32A11M is the world's first helicopter that can be used to extinguish fires in winter conditions. Rostec specialists have developed a unique electric heating function for water intake and discharge devices, water cannon and other fire extinguishing systems that can operate at temperatures up to -20 degrees Celsius.
The Ka-32 modernization program includes equipping it with a "glass" cabin with an avionics system, more powerful VK-2500PS-02 engines and a new fire extinguishing system. VK-2500PS-02 engines will significantly improve the helicopter's flight characteristics in hot and mountainous conditions. At the same time, the main advantage of the new motor is an increased resource and reliability when working with an external suspension.
For the first time, the Ka-32A11M was presented at the MAKS-2021 Aviation and Space Salon.
Russian Helicopters Holding (part of Rostec State Corporation) is one of the world leaders in the helicopter industry, the only developer and manufacturer of helicopters in Russia. The holding was founded in 2007. The head office is located in Moscow. The holding includes five helicopter factories, the national helicopter building center, which combines the competencies of two design bureaus, as well as enterprises for the production and maintenance of components, aircraft repair plants and a service company providing after-sales support in Russia and abroad.
Rostec State Corporation is the largest industrial company in Russia. In 2022, it celebrates 15 years since its foundation. It unites about 800 scientific and industrial organizations in 60 regions of the country. The key areas of activity are aircraft engineering, radio electronics, medical technologies, innovative materials. The corporation's products are supplied to more than 100 countries around the world. Almost a third of the company's revenue is provided by the export of high-tech products.
