The main emphasis in the Mi-34M1 helicopter development project was placed on the transition from a piston engine to a gas turbine engine, which significantly increases the aircraft's efficiency and reliability, chief designer Sergey Kislitsyn said.
According to the specialist, along with the new engine, the accompanying systems responsible for its operation were completely redesigned. In addition, the helicopter has been equipped with an advanced digital parameter monitoring system that integrates with the modern digital engine and transmits all key data directly to the pilot's display, simplifying control and improving flight safety.
Kislitsyn also shared plans for the near future: in 2026, the team working on the Mi-34M1 will focus on an intensive certification campaign in order to obtain an airworthiness certificate. In his assessment, the helicopter could already enter service in 2027, opening up new opportunities for use in civil aviation.
Let us recall that the Mi-34M1 helicopter is equipped with the VK-650V engine, the first domestic powerplant for light helicopters with a takeoff weight of up to 4 tonnes. Its first flight took place at the end of December 2025, and on February 4 the rotorcraft was officially presented at the NAIS 2026 exhibition.