Russian Helicopters has announced that it will be presenting a modernised Ka-32A11M firefighting helicopter at the MAKS 2021 International Aviation and Space Salon, which is due to be held in Zhukovsky, near Moscow, between 20 and 25 July.
This upgraded version of the Ka-32 will feature a glass cockpit with advanced avionics, more powerful VK-2500PS-02 engines and a new firefighting system.
Andrey Boginsky, director general of Russian Helicopters, commented: “The Ka-32 is recognised all over the world as one of the best helicopters for firefighting work. Nevertheless, even the best models need timely modernisation. We have managed to preserve the outstanding flight performance of the model, supplementing it with modern avionics and a new, more efficient and multifunctional fire extinguishing system.”
He added: “A prototype of the Ka-32A11M will be present at the MAKS 2021 air show, and we are planning to start supplying the aircraft as early as next year.”
According to Russian Helicopters, the technical solutions used in the new glass cockpit of the Ka-32A11M have already been tested on the Ansat and Mi-38 civil multirole helicopters. Additional navigation, optoelectronic and search equipment will facilitate operations. Pilots will also be able to use night vision goggles.
The VK-2500PS-02 engines should enable the helicopter to perform significantly better in hot and mountainous environments. The company expects a 1,600 kg increase in load capacity in such conditions.
The new SP-32 firefighting system is electrically heated, so it can be used in temperatures as low as -20°C. Its tank holds four tons of water and can be filled in 60 seconds. The digitally controlled discharge system provides the operator with flexible options for managing the release of the water.
