Russia, China to ink contract on jointly developing heavy lift helicopter

Russia and China will soon sign a "contract of the century" on the joint development of a new-generation advanced heavy transport helicopter.

According to Russian media, the two sides have been in talks for years to prepare a contract on the creation of an updated version of the Mi-26 Russian-made helicopter.

The new helicopter will “be even better than the Mi-26 helicopter,” said Valentin Padalka, an honored military pilot of the Russia Federation.

He said the aircraft will is equipped with an integrated airborne radio subsystem that simplifies operation and automates flight missions.

“With the joint efforts from Chinese and Russian designers, the world's greatest helicopter will be produced,” he added.

“China boasts advanced technology while we have rich experience in producing helicopters. Combining the two advantages, we will certainly make a perfect aircraft," Padalka said.

The first of the 40-tonne jointly developed helicopter will be delivered by 2030.

Trade turnover between Moscow and Beijing topped an all-time high earlier this year, surpassing $107 billion in January, just one month after it hit the previous record of $100 billion.

SS