Kamov Ka-32

The Kamov Ka-32, known to NATO as Helix-C, is a medium transport helicopter from the Soviet Union and Russia with the coaxial rotor layout typical of the Kamov design bureau, two turboshaft engines and fixed landing gear. It began as a civilian development of the Ka-27PS search and rescue helicopter, drawing on the experience of operating the Ka-25 and Ka-27 family from ship decks. Development is dated from 1969; the experimental aircraft first flew on 24 December 1973 and in 1978 was used to escort the nuclear icebreaker Sibir and its convoy through the polar night. Its multipurpose role covers search and rescue, cargo transport, unloading ships, servicing drilling platforms, crane work, timber removal and patrol duty. Series production by JSC KumAPP began in 1985, about 160 had been built by 2006, and since 2011 only the Ka-32A11BC variant has been produced.