Russian Helicopters and the Brazilian investment group Qualy Group Brasil have signed a deal on the promotion of the Mi-34C1 helicopter on the basis of a dealership agreement, the Russian company said on Friday.
The deal was signed at the Latin America Aero and Defense 2011 (LAAD-2011) arms show being held in Rio de Janeiro on April 12-15.
Russian Helicopters is expecting to sell up to 150 Mi-34C1 helicopters on the Brazilian market by 2030.
The Mil Mi-34C1 light helicopter is a revamped version of the Mi-34 which was produced in the Soviet Union and Russia until the late 1990s. The helicopter features an upgraded engine and avionics, and is expected to conduct its maiden flight in May or June.
The Mi-34C1 has a maximum takeoff weight of 3,200 lbs (1,450 kgs), a payload of 660 lbs (300 kgs), cruise speed of 105 knots (195 km/h) and range of 330 nautical miles (610 kms).
Russian and Brazilian experts believe that the agile four-seat helicopter could become a popular means of corporate and private transportation. It could also be used for sports, pilot training and surveillance.
Russian Helicopters and Qualy Group Brasil are planning to set up a maintenance, logistics, and training center for the Brazilian fleet of Mi-34C1 helicopters.
RIO DE JANEIRO, April 15 (RIA Novosti)
