News
Rostec to create VRT500 prototype by the end of 2019
April 26, 2018 By Helicopters Staff
Russian Helicopters, part of Rostec State Corporation, will produce a light utility helicopter prototype, called the VRT500, by the end of 2019. The prototype is being designed by VR-Technologies design bureau. Rostec explains the helicopter’s rotor system strength tests are now underway and VR-Technologies will soon begin aerodynamic tests, which it specializes in.
The helicopter is to be supplied in the following configurations: passenger, utility, cargo, training, VIP, and Medevac. VRT500 will be the first Medevac helicopter in the world in the segment of helicopters with maximum take-off weight up to two tons, explains Rostec, to ensure loading and unloading of unified gurneys through the rear cabin doors. Rostec states this simplifies the process and significantly reduces loading time.
Rostec continues to explain the VRT500 combines high flight performance and low pricing and operating costs. The company also claims it will hold the largest transport and cargo cabin in its class, with a total capacity of up to five people. Rostec predicts these characteristics will allow the VRT500 to occupy up to 15 per cent of the global market of civil helicopters with maximum take-off weight up to two tons.
“We expect to produce and sell an average of 700 helicopters by 2030,” said Alexander Okhonko, VR-Technologies director general.
According to Okhonko, about 30 per cent of supply would be destined to the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean and about 15 per cent would be sent to North America, Asia-Pacific region, Europe, Russia and CIS.
VRT500 is a light single-engine helicopter with coaxial rotor scheme and 1600 kg take-off weight. Rostec explains the helicopter, featuring a glass cockpit avionics suite, will be capable of accelerating up to 230 km/h and will achieve a range of up to 1,000 km and payload of up to 750 kg.
