Russian Ка-32 helicopter has won the Chinese tender and China will acquire 20 Ka-32A11BCs, Aviation EXplorer reports with reference to reliable source.

«Long-awaited and worthy victory. Several tenders will take part in different regions of China, so the number of Kamov helicopters in the country may increase», - the source noted.

Ka-32A11BC is a multi-role version of Ка-32А helicopter. The vehicle may be used for transportation of suspended loads and as a flying crane helicopter for mounting of high-rise constructions. The coaxial arrangement of Ka-32A11BC gives it several significant advantages in the area of hovering precision and helicopter’s maneuverability, thus the vehicle is able to perform complex mounting operations. Ka-32A11BC is able to perform a wide range of tasks, including horizontal high-altitude fire-fighting using water cannon.

Ka-32A11BC is developed by Kamov design bureau, which forms part of Russian Helicopters Holding Company. The serial production of Ka-32A11BC is carried out by Kumertau Aviation Production Enterprise. More than 140 helicopters have already been manufactured and about half of them are operated in 30 countries all over the world.

At present Ка-32А11BC is certified in the world’s largest regions: North and South America, Europe and Asia. In particular, the helicopter has received the type certificate in Brazil and India (2011), in Europe (2009, EASA.IM.R.133 certificate). Ка-32А11BC has been certified in China, Indonesia and South Korea in 2008, in Chile (2007) and in Mexico – in 2005. The helicopter has acquired a supplement to the type certificate in Canada in 2006, which allowed transportation of official passengers (the original certificate has been issued by Canada in 1998).

Ka-32 helicopters are successfully operated by national operators of Spain, Portugal, Colombia, Switzerland, Canada, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, China and other countries. The helicopters are also leased to foreign companies from Brazil and Chile.