The state flight testing of Mi-8MTV-5-1 helicopter with ТV3-117VМА-SBМ1V continues in combat employment and retraining center in Torzhok, Voenno-promishlenniy courier reports.

«The decision to deliver the Mi-8MTV-5-1 helicopter to Torzhok in order to continue the state testing has been taken», – said Anatoly Sitnov, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of “Dvigateli “Vladimir Klimov – Motor Sich” joint venture (Russia – Ukraine).

According to him, Mi-8MTV-5-1 helicopter has already performed 12 successful test flights. It is planned to perform 20 more flights in Torzhok with the participation of military pilots. «Simultaneously the helicopter will be equipped with a special equipment in order to evaluate the functionality of reducing gearbox», – Sitnov said.

According to him, “the state flight testing should be completed in late October – early November. It is planned to sign an act on results of state testing in 2012».

Sitnov noted that ТV3-117VМА-SBМ1V engine provides significant improvement of the helicopter's performance. «The engine is able to work in emergency power rating for one hour», - he said.

According to Sitnov, this is very important indicator in terms of flight safety, since this helicopter will be able to fly for 200 km with one running engine.

Another feature of this engine is increased power (2500-2800 h.p.) as compared to the base TV3-117VMA engine (2200 h.p.). It may be operated under conditions of high-altitude, hot and wet climate.