Four Arctic versions of Mil Mi-38PS search-and-rescue helicopters will facilitate the safe operation of the Northern Sea Route and will also cope with calamities and industrial accidents, as per the press service of the Russian Ministry for Civil Defense, Emergencies and Disaster Relief.

Fitted with additional drop tanks, the Mi-38PSs will have an unprecedented range of 1,500 kilometers; this is particularly important for flying over vast Arctic territories. These helicopters feature water dispensers and outboard spray-guns for dealing with environmental pollution and fires.

“These completely Russian-made and brand-new aircraft have been developed in accordance with the Russian Emergencies Ministry’s specifications. First of all, this concerns their extended range. We considered this to be important: Mi-38PS helicopters will patrol the Arctic Zone where we continue to establish airborne search-and-rescue units, stage by stage,” Emergencies Minister Alexander Kurenkov said.

The new helicopter features modern avionics for more reliable operations in adverse weather conditions. Five multirole color LED monitors have been installed inside its cockpit for providing data to the pilots. Special-purpose radio-electronic equipment (a radio beacon) will help conduct search-and-rescue missions.

The helicopter’s maximum takeoff weight has increased to 16.5 metric tons, thus increasing its range. The helicopters boast an improved performance and specifications, as well as additional functions for operating in freezing temperatures.

It is also possible to equip the helicopters with single-seat and two-seat medical modules for evacuating sick and wounded persons. Winches will help evacuate casualties even when landing is impossible. Each helicopter can carry 40 passengers inside the cargo hold or up to 5,000 kilograms of freight on external stores.