Russia Begins Mi-171A2 Helicopter Deliveries to Enhance Bangladesh’s Aerial Security
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As part of a strategic partnership between Russia and Bangladesh, the holding company Russian Helicopters, a subsidiary of the Rostec conglomerate, began delivering two Mi-171A2 multi-role helicopters in late December. These helicopters, among the most advanced and capable in their category, are part of a contract signed in 2021 valued at $22.4 million. This deal represents a step forward in bilateral relations, extending beyond a commercial transaction.
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The Mi-171A2 represents a modernized evolution of the proven Mi-8/17 series, combining versatility with advanced technology (Picture source: Russian Helicopters)
In December 2024, the first helicopter, registered as S3-CPA, completed its flight tests in Russia, a key milestone before its transfer to Bangladesh. Despite initial delays, both helicopters are expected to be delivered by the summer of 2025. These aircraft are intended to significantly improve Bangladesh’s aerial security through enhanced operational versatility across various missions.
The Mi-171A2 represents a modernized evolution of the proven Mi-8/17 series, combining versatility with advanced technology. It can carry up to 20 passengers or 4,000 kg of internal cargo, and up to 5,000 kg on external sling loads. Designed for missions such as medical evacuation, search and rescue, and firefighting, it is powered by two VK-2500PS-03 engines, each delivering 2,700 horsepower in emergency mode. It can achieve a cruising speed of 260 km/h with a range of 800 km. Its operational range includes extreme temperatures from -50°C to +50°C, and it can function at altitudes of up to 6,000 meters.
The helicopter is equipped with advanced systems, including a KBO-17 glass cockpit with multifunctional displays, a digital autopilot, and sophisticated navigation tools. Its L370 Vitebsk electronic warfare system provides protection against heat-seeking missiles, and it can also be outfitted with armaments such as machine guns, rockets, and anti-tank missiles mounted on external pylons. The Mi-171A2 is further enhanced with modern radar systems, FLIR technology, and compatibility with night-vision goggles, ensuring adaptability to challenging environments.
This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to modernize Bangladesh’s armed forces. The country is also considering the purchase of Black Hawk S-70i helicopters and J-10C fighter jets to strengthen its defense capabilities. These initiatives reflect Bangladesh’s intent to bolster its sovereignty with advanced equipment.
Beyond the Mi-171A2, defense cooperation between Russia and Bangladesh is grounded in longstanding ties. During Bangladesh’s 1971 liberation war, the Soviet Union provided significant military and humanitarian support. In the 1990s, Bangladesh expanded its air fleet with the purchase of eight MiG-29 fighter jets in a deal worth $124 million. In 2021, Russia expressed its commitment to deepening military and technical collaboration, underscoring the strategic value of this partnership for regional security.
This relationship also encompasses critical infrastructure projects, such as the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, financed and supported by Russia. As the Mi-171A2 helicopters prepare to join Bangladesh’s fleet, they are expected to play a key role in shaping the country’s aerial operations, addressing security challenges, and supporting a variety of mission profiles.
{loadposition bannertop}
{loadposition sidebarpub}
As part of a strategic partnership between Russia and Bangladesh, the holding company Russian Helicopters, a subsidiary of the Rostec conglomerate, began delivering two Mi-171A2 multi-role helicopters in late December. These helicopters, among the most advanced and capable in their category, are part of a contract signed in 2021 valued at $22.4 million. This deal represents a step forward in bilateral relations, extending beyond a commercial transaction.
The Mi-171A2 represents a modernized evolution of the proven Mi-8/17 series, combining versatility with advanced technology (Picture source: Russian Helicopters)
In December 2024, the first helicopter, registered as S3-CPA, completed its flight tests in Russia, a key milestone before its transfer to Bangladesh. Despite initial delays, both helicopters are expected to be delivered by the summer of 2025. These aircraft are intended to significantly improve Bangladesh’s aerial security through enhanced operational versatility across various missions.
The Mi-171A2 represents a modernized evolution of the proven Mi-8/17 series, combining versatility with advanced technology. It can carry up to 20 passengers or 4,000 kg of internal cargo, and up to 5,000 kg on external sling loads. Designed for missions such as medical evacuation, search and rescue, and firefighting, it is powered by two VK-2500PS-03 engines, each delivering 2,700 horsepower in emergency mode. It can achieve a cruising speed of 260 km/h with a range of 800 km. Its operational range includes extreme temperatures from -50°C to +50°C, and it can function at altitudes of up to 6,000 meters.
The helicopter is equipped with advanced systems, including a KBO-17 glass cockpit with multifunctional displays, a digital autopilot, and sophisticated navigation tools. Its L370 Vitebsk electronic warfare system provides protection against heat-seeking missiles, and it can also be outfitted with armaments such as machine guns, rockets, and anti-tank missiles mounted on external pylons. The Mi-171A2 is further enhanced with modern radar systems, FLIR technology, and compatibility with night-vision goggles, ensuring adaptability to challenging environments.
This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to modernize Bangladesh’s armed forces. The country is also considering the purchase of Black Hawk S-70i helicopters and J-10C fighter jets to strengthen its defense capabilities. These initiatives reflect Bangladesh’s intent to bolster its sovereignty with advanced equipment.
Beyond the Mi-171A2, defense cooperation between Russia and Bangladesh is grounded in longstanding ties. During Bangladesh’s 1971 liberation war, the Soviet Union provided significant military and humanitarian support. In the 1990s, Bangladesh expanded its air fleet with the purchase of eight MiG-29 fighter jets in a deal worth $124 million. In 2021, Russia expressed its commitment to deepening military and technical collaboration, underscoring the strategic value of this partnership for regional security.
This relationship also encompasses critical infrastructure projects, such as the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, financed and supported by Russia. As the Mi-171A2 helicopters prepare to join Bangladesh’s fleet, they are expected to play a key role in shaping the country’s aerial operations, addressing security challenges, and supporting a variety of mission profiles.
