Another heavy transport helicopter Mi-26TS will be delivered to China next year, Interfax-AVN reports with reference to a source close to the military-industrial sector.

"This is the fourth Mi-26 to be delivered to China. Three vehicles of the type have already been delivered to the customer. In future we may sign new contracts for delivery of Mi-26 helicopters to China and other countries", - the source said.

He added that the helicopter was demonstrated to several foreign customers recently.

The source explained that civil version of Mi-26TS helicopter is being delivered to China. "This vehicle is no different from Mi-26T delivered to Russian airlines. Mi-26TS was certified (validated) by Chinese aviation authorities", - the source said.

According to him, the Mi-26T helicopters delivered to airlines are fitted with weather radar series 4 with a color LCD display.

The mass production of Mi-26 helicopters is carried out by Rostvertol, part of Russian Helicopters Holding Company. Maximum takeoff weight of Mi-26 – 56 tons; it is able to carry a payload of 20 tons inside the cabin or using an external sling. Its maximum flight speed is 295 km/h, cruise speed - 255 km/h. Its dynamic ceiling is 4600 m. The helicopter’s range with a payload of 20 tons and without additional fuel tanks is 590 km, with four additional fuel tanks - 1920 km.