By M.A.Kadir

Langkawi, 20 May 2025 — For the first time since 2019, Russian Helicopters, a subsidiary of the State Corporation Rostec, made a high-profile return to the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2025), showcasing three of its latest and most capable aircraft: the Mi-171A3 offshore helicopter, the Ka-32A11M aerial firefighting helicopter, and the versatile light utility Ansat.

As the Asia-Pacific region continues to drive demand for advanced rotorcraft, especially in sectors like offshore oil and gas, emergency response, and disaster relief, the presence of Russian Helicopters at LIMA underscored its renewed commitment to the regional market.

At the forefront of its exhibition was the Mi-171A3, a next-generation offshore transport helicopter purpose-built to support oil and gas operations. With Malaysia being a key exporter of natural resources and holding proven oil reserves exceeding 4 billion barrels, the Mi-171A3 was presented as an ideal solution. Capable of carrying up to 24 passengers — the highest in its class — with a maximum take-off weight of 13 tonnes and a range of 1,000 km, the aircraft meets the growing need for safe, long-range overwater transport. Its advanced flight control systems, crash-resistant airframe, and internal fuel tanks emphasize operational safety even in the most demanding offshore environments.

Complementing this was the Ka-32A11M, an upgraded version of the well-regarded firefighting helicopter, equipped with the new Russian-designed SP-32 fire extinguishing system. This helicopter can deliver 4,000 litres of water and 400 litres of fire suppressant foam per sortie, placing it among the top-tier aerial firefighting platforms globally. Enhanced with digital flight control systems and an ergonomic water release mechanism, the Ka-32A11M is ideally suited for Malaysia’s challenging mountainous terrain and recurring forest fires.

Also featured was the Ansat, a lightweight multipurpose helicopter known for its low lifecycle cost, ease of maintenance, and quick reconfiguration capabilities. With no need for hangar storage and the ability to land in tight, unprepared spaces, Ansat’s flexibility makes it especially relevant for urban and rural deployment in Southeast Asia. Certified to operate in extreme temperatures up to 50°C, it is tailored for tropical climates and is available in several configurations including medevac, passenger transport, and search and rescue.

Adding local context to the exhibition, the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA) showcased its reliable Mi-8/Mi-17 helicopter at the static display area. BOMBA has long relied on the Mi-series for complex operations, particularly in fire suppression and emergency response — a testament to their enduring trust in Russian-built aircraft.

Russian Helicopters, established in 2007 and based in Moscow, remains the sole designer and manufacturer of rotorcraft in Russia. The company operates five assembly plants, a national helicopter manufacturing centre, and a wide network of MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) facilities. Its parent entity, Rostec, is one of the largest state-owned industrial conglomerates in Russia, comprising over 800 enterprises across 60 regions, and serves as a key supplier in strategic industries ranging from aerospace and defence to energy and medical technology.

LIMA 2025 reaffirms the growing role of Southeast Asia in the global aerospace arena — and for Russian Helicopters, it’s a return marked by cutting-edge innovation and a strong bid for relevance in a highly competitive market.