VRT500 Mockup Makes HeliRussia Debut

The Russian Helicopters VRT500 mockup made its HeliRussia debut this week. The single-engine helicopter is designed to have a 3,500 lb gross weight (1,600 kg) and seat up to five people or carry 1,600 lb (730 kg) of cargo. Its coaxial rotor system enables the rotorcraft to accelerate to 135 kts (250 km/h) and range to 464 nm (860 km).

The design comes from the little-known startup VR-Technologies design bureau “in cooperation with an international team of engineers.” According to Russian Helicopters, the VRT500 is to become the first lightweight rotorcraft in its product range. At HeliRussia 2018, the VRT500 is demonstrated in a full-scale mockup form. Russian Helicopters says structural tests on the rotor system are ongoing. Aerodynamic testing will begin shortly. The first operable example is expected to roll out in 2019, with first flight occurring later in that year. Serial production will be set up at the Russian Helicopters’ plant in Ulan-Ude, which currently makes the Mi-8/17 series.

The design is attracting interest from both within and outside Russia, said Russian Helicopters CEO Andrei Boginsky. “Agreements on strategic partnerships with some of those have been signed, as part of our effort to promote the new helicopter into the global marketplace," Boginsky said. “According to our estimates, we will sell about 1,000 such rotorcraft, and this would enable us to take a 15 percent market share in the global market for helicopters with gross weight below two [metric] tons.”

Boginsky explained that Russian Helicopters decided to embark on the VRT500 project believing that this class will be the most popular in the future, and already accounts for some 18 percent of the worldwide fleet.

Alexander Okhonko, general manager at VR-Technologies, believes that about 700 such rotorcraft can be sold and delivered through to 2030.

For its part, Russian Helicopters parent corporation Rostec issued a statement expressing its commitment to the project. Through the VRT500 program, Rostec aims to enter the market for lightweight helicopters in a big way. “The VRT500 has superb flight and technical performance. Coupled with an attractive price, these shall ensure success of this new design in both the domestic and international markets,” said Anatoly Serdyukov, industrial director with Rostec.

The VRT500 will be offered for numerous uses, including passenger, cargo, and VIP transportation, as well as for training and medical evacuation. For medical missions, the helicopter will be able to board patients through the rear doors.