Second Mi-28N prototype delivered for flight tests

Rostvertol Transfers Example of Newest Mi-28N Helicopter for Flight Tests

OAO Rostvertol has transferred a second example of the Mi-28N helicopter from the final assembly hall for flight tests. Up to now only one example has existed of the new aircraft, which was assembled at the Moscow Mil’ Helicopter Plant with the support of Rostvertol (at the present time is its undergoing state tests.)

As the general director of Rostvertol, Boris Slyusar’, declared at a ceremony for the aircraft’s transfer for flight tests, a characteristic feature of the new aircraft is the fact that it was assembled at a series production plant with the use of parts assembled by series production suppliers. Thus, Rostvertol and its suppliers are ready fully for series production of the new helicopter.

According to the plant’s deputy chief engineer, Andrey Varfolomeev, during the aircraft’s assembly (the decision about which was signed as early as 2001), nearly 3,000 new design solutions were used. After completion of flight tests, the Mi-28N will be transferred to the Moscow Mil’ Helicopter Plant for continuation of state tests together with the first example.

It is recalled that the Mi-28N “Night Hunter” strike helicopter relates to the fifth generation of combat aviation complexes. It was developed using the experience of the combat use of Mi-35 helicopters and also of other helicopters of the same purpose. The aircraft is intended for the search and destruction of tanks, armor, enemy personnel and the destruction of defended objects and damage to spaced targets (defensive structures and others), combat with high-speed and low-flying enemy aircraft, destruction of low-speed aerial targets, and the execution of combat missions at night and in poor weather conditions. The Mi-28N is able to perform aerobatic maneuvers.

The combat effectiveness and high survivability of the helicopter are provided for by a complex of precision missile and cannon armament, and also by an armored crew cockpit, which provides for protection from bullet and rocket hits all the way up to 20 milimeters.

Source: 11.03.04, AK&M

How the hell do you get 3,000 design solutions in between prototypes?