Five air ambulances ordered (240 words)

Published: 1/12/2001

Venianmin Kasyanniko, Kamov's Deputy General Designer said that Canada is interested in buying further Ka-32s. TASS quoted him during a visit by President Putin to Canada in December. The trade accords signed during this visit would help Russian products. Canada already operates two Ka-32s, with FAR certification for operation in the timber industry, and is seen by Kamov as a strong potential market. Elsewhere, Kamov is reported to have won a contract for five Ka-62s air ambulances, for use by the Turkish Ministry of Health. The deal, said to be worth approximately $31.5m, was won in the face of competition from both Augusta and Eurocopter, due to the helicopter being more competitive - with its superior flight range and all weather capability. The helicopters will be delivered within 15 months and may be co-produced with the Turks; the only one of the possible contenders to offer such a deal. To date, there has been little discussion regarding the Ka-62, with most of the interest focussing on the certification of the military Ka-60. According to Yyacheslav Kryguin, the Ka-62's Chief Designer, the first of two planned prototypes for the Ka-62 (although under construction since 1990), has been built and earlier reports have suggested certitification this year to FAR Pt 29A/B standards. It is unclear whether the Ka-62 delivered to Turkey will be the Ka-62M certified to Western standards or the Ka-62 intended for the domestic market. The Rybinsk RD-600V powers both helicopters, although the General Electric T700/CT7-2D1 is offered as an alternative with Aviabribor developed avionics.

Article ID: 2284