The Russian Defense Ministry received its first helicopter developed for Arctic deployment, the Russian Helicopters manufacturer said Wednesday.

ULAN-UDE (Sputnik) – The Mi-8AMTSh-VA helicopter model was developed based on an upgraded Mi-8AMTSh-V helicopter that features new Klimov VK-2500-03 turboshaft engines, a more powerful TA-14 auxiliary power plant and upgraded avionics. It has high-altitude navigation, as well as the capability for day and night flight in adverse weather conditions.

An official ceremony was held earlier in the day at the Russian Helicopters factory in the south-central Russian city of Ulan-Ude in the Republic of Buryatia. The Defense Ministry signed a five-year delivery contract on the Arctic-optimized helicopters in February, the company said.

Russia unveiled a strategy to boost its presence in the Arctic, believed to hold vast oil and natural gas reserves, two years ago.

Press release RIA Novosti

Picture Russian Helicopters