Mil Mi-X1
| Industry | Aerospace |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Moscow , Russia |
| Products | Helicopters |
Template:Infobox aircraft Mil Mi-X1 represents a high-speed rotorcraft concept proposed by Mil from Russia. It forms part of the same development initiative as the rival Kamov Ka-92, both aiming to produce a new class of medium-weight helicopters capable of cruising near 500 km/h (312 mph). Initial design outlines and tentative specifications were revealed during the HeliRussia 2009 exhibition held close to Moscow. This design competes for a Russian government contract valued at approximately US$1.3 billion, with Kamov presenting the other contender.
Design
The Mi-X1 is engineered with a maximum takeoff weight around 10 tons, accommodating up to 25 passengers and capable of covering distances up to 1,500 km. Its configuration features a single main rotor complemented by a rear-mounted lift rotor. Because it employs only one main rotor, the helicopter must address the challenge of retreating blade stall (RBS), which typically arises at speeds near 300 km/h, causing vibrations that could potentially damage the rotor system. To counteract RBS effects, Mil has introduced the proprietary Stall Local Elimination System (SLES) designed to reduce rotor load. According to Mil’s Chief Designer Nikolay Pavlenko, plans are in place to conduct SLES testing at Russia’s TsAGI Central Aerohydrodynamics Institute.
Previously, Mil claimed that SLES alone would enable the Mi-X1 to reach speeds between 450 and 500 km/h. Updated data presented at HeliRussia 2009 indicated a cruising velocity of approximately 475 km/h with maximum speeds ranging from 495 to 520 km/h. Achieving these figures involves integrating a pusher propeller along with multiple aerodynamic enhancements such as retractable landing gear and refined forward and aft fuselage shapes.
Powerplant options under consideration include two uprated Klimov VK-2500 turboshaft engines or alternatively two forthcoming Klimov TV7-117#Klimov_VK-3000 engines currently in development. Comparable power units are utilized in attack helicopters like the Mil Mi-28 and Kamov Ka-50.
In 2015, responsibility for advancing both the Mi-X1 and Ka-92 projects shifted from the Ministry for Industry and Trade to the Ministry of Defence due to budget reductions and concerns over operating expenses. A senior officer from the Russian Air Force projected that a prototype could take flight by 2018, with serial production commencing around 2022. That same year marked the launch of a single-seat "flying laboratory" based on the Mil Mi-24, targeting speeds near 400 km/h (248 mph).
See also
References
Literature
- Russia & CIS Observer, May 2009