In Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant “Helicopters of Russia” resolved flights under the control of the first flight test Mi-8AMTSh-VA for Arctic duty, reported military-informant.com.

The helicopter is based on the latest modification of the Mi-8AMTSh-V military transport helicopter which is fitted with the new Klimov-made VK-2500-03 turboshaft engines, a more powerful TA-14 auxiliary power unit and an upgraded avionics suite.

In November, the first Mi-8AMTSh-VA will be delivered to the customer. Deliveries of these helicopters under the state defense order will begin in 2016.