Myanmar has officially taken delivery of three Russian Mi-38T medium helicopters, marking a significant step as it becomes the first foreign operator of this advanced rotary-wing aircraft family. This acquisition comes after a long-delayed contract signed in 2020, which included two transport models and one VIP variant manufactured by Kazan Helicopters, a state-owned defense company based in Moscow.
The induction ceremony took place in Naypyidaw and was presided over by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. Videos shared later indicated that at least one Mi-38T had been operational within Myanmar, suggesting it may have undergone a trial flight earlier in September.
In addition to the Mi-38Ts, the Myanmar Armed Forces also commissioned two new Chinese Y-18F 120W turboprop transport aircraft at the same event.
The timeline of this acquisition dates back to 2020, when Russian officials hinted that a Southeast Asian nation had become the Mi-38’s first export customer, following an advance payment for three aircraft. Reports from 2022 published by opposition groups in Myanmar provided insights into the deal, revealing that two Mi-38T transports were priced at 18.8 million euros (approximately $21.7 million) each, while the VIP variant was listed at 21.9 million euros (around $25.3 million). Including training, optional modules, fuel tanks, and maintenance kits, the total estimated value of the contract is reported to be about 80 million euros (roughly $92.4 million).
The significant lag of five years between the deal and the recent handover can be attributed to the ongoing development of the Mi-38 and its Klimov engines, as well as the political turmoil in Myanmar following the 2021 coup.
Technical specifications of the Mi-38T reveal a robust design with a length of 20 meters (66 feet) and powered by two Klimov TV7-117V turboshaft engines, delivering approximately 2,800 horsepower each. The helicopter is designed for a crew of two and has the capacity to transport up to 30 personnel or handle an internal payload of about 6,000 kilograms (roughly 13,228 pounds). It can also carry up to 7,000 kilograms (15,432 pounds) externally. With a maximum altitude of 6,300 meters (20,669 feet), a cruising speed of 160 knots (296 kilometers/184 miles per hour), and a flight range of approximately 480 nautical miles (889 kilometers/552 miles), the Mi-38T stands out as a versatile asset for Myanmar’s military operations.
