The Russian Helicopters Holding Company of Rostec State Corporation has received approval from the Federal Air Transport Agency for a major change in the design of the Ka-32A helicopter. The aircraft of the latest modification Ka-32A11M meets the modern requirements of aviation airworthiness standards. The main differences of the upgraded machine are the unique domestic fire extinguishing system and new engines.
During the certification tests, the Ka-32A11M performed more than a hundred flights. Based on the data obtained, the specialists evaluated the performance of the engines and main systems, as well as the flight characteristics of the rotorcraft. Bench tests were also conducted to assess the stability of the helicopter and its systems to high-intensity electromagnetic fields and lightning discharges. The Ka-32A11M demonstrated the possibility of performing a safe takeoff and landing in the event of a failure of one of the engines.
The helicopter is equipped with domestic VK-2500PS-02 engines with a digital automatic control and control system BARK-6V-7S. Its use makes it possible to maintain an optimal power range, including when operating in the highlands and in areas with a hot climate.
The Ka-32A11M has a modified cooling system, which will allow the helicopter to operate at extremely high temperatures. At the same time, one of the advantages of the new modification of helicopters is the ability to fight fire even in severe frosts, up to -20 degrees Celsius, which is implemented for the first time in the world. The latest Russian fire extinguishing system SP-32 is equipped with electric heating of water discharge valves, hoses and pumps. Its capacity is up to 4000 liters of water and up to 400 liters of foam agent. It fills up in 60 seconds, and the digital control of the tank flaps allows you to control the intensity of extinguishing. In addition, an emergency water discharge is provided in the system.
"The Ka-32A11M is certified in categories "A" and "B", which confirms compliance with the most stringent Russian and international flight safety standards. The modernization has expanded the capabilities of one of the world's best fire helicopters when operating in difficult natural and climatic conditions. It is planned not only to produce new machines, but also to upgrade the Ka-32 in operation to the level of the Ka-32A11M," the Russian Helicopters holding company said.
One of the advantages of Ka-32 helicopters is their high maneuverability and accuracy. The coaxial scheme provides stability in hovering mode, increased maneuverability and high thrust-to-weight ratio. This is especially important when extinguishing fires in the mountains and among urban areas, performing emergency rescue operations, logging, and transporting goods. With the help of a water cannon, the Ka-32A11M can extinguish fires on high-rise buildings and facilities. The list of additional helicopter options also includes an overhead spillway device with a capacity of up to 5 tons and various emergency rescue equipment.
"For a year and a half, experts from the Rosaviation working group, which included representatives of the Russian Aviation Registry, the certification centers of the State Research Institute of Aviation, the P.I. Baranov CIAM, participated in certification work to assess compliance with mandatory requirements of airworthiness standards. The results of the successfully completed work were agreed upon and approved by the experts. Upon completion of the work, Rosaviation specialists promptly evaluated the results and prepared an approval document," said Andrey Dobryakov, Deputy Head of Rosaviation.
The Ka-32 family helicopters are manufactured at the Kumertau Aviation Manufacturing Enterprise (KumAPP) of the Russian Helicopters holding Company of Rostec State Corporation.
