The latest modified version of the Ka-226T light helicopter will become the main rotorcraft for agriculture purposes in Russia. The agreement on building such aircraft version was signed between Russian Helicopters holding and Aerochimflot Aviation Alliance. The first new modified Ka-226Ts are to be supplied in 2025.
Currently, the An-2 planes, the Mi-2 helicopters and foreign light rotorcraft are generally used for agriculture purposes in Russia. The Ka-226T has a coaxial propeller configuration that offers an advantage over other aircraft when treating farmland. It is a leader in its class in terms of takeoff weight-carried cargo ration and can make a U-turn almost on the spot, which helps to use chemicals in a more efficient and safe manner. This compact helicopter is capable of operating from small unprepared pads and its flexibility will enable operators to avoid off-season downtime. The aircraft, if necessary, may be easily transformed into ambulance, search-and-rescue, cargo or passenger rotorcraft.
The Ka-226T flexibility is ensured by a modular approach: Suspended modules with various equipment may be placed behind the cockpit. For example, when mounting farmland spraying equipment, the passenger cabin for seven seats may be removed. The helicopter will be able to carry 1,000kg of cargo in the cabin or on external sling system, a payload is up to 1,500kg at the maximum flight weight up to 3,800kg and a maximum flight range with main fuel tanks is 550 km.
