The first batch of Mi-17V-5s, delivered in accordance with a contract signed in 2008, has been put into operation by Indian air forces, RIA Novosti reports.

"The solemn ceremony with the participation of Indian Minister of Defense, has taken place at Indian Palam air base, located near Delhi", - the press-service of Rosoboronexport reports.

According to the press-service of Indian air forces, the contract on delivery of 80 Mi-17V-5s has been signed in 2008. About 20 helicopters have already been delivered to India. These vehicles are being produced by Kazan helicopter plant.

All 80 helicopters should be put into operation by 2014. According to Indian mass-media, the contract’s value is $1,34 billion. The local press reports that India intends to acquire 60 more helicopters of this type.

"The newest modifications of Mi-17 family helicopters are one of the Russian aircraft industry’s symbols – the significant share of “helicopter orders” refers to these legendary vehicles", - Rosoboronexport reports.

Мi-17V-5 is the advanced modification of Мi-8МТ, developed using tactical employment experience. The helicopter is intended for transportation of cargo, troopers and suspended load.

According to the head of the company, Anatoly Isaykin, the entry into service of the large batch of Mi-17V-5s is the significant milestone in the area of cooperation between Russia and India. "I am confident that military-technical cooperation between Russia and India will be advancing consistently in future", - he said.