Analysis: How Many Mi-8s do Russians Produce for the Army?

Analysts have assessed the current production volumes of multi-purpose helicopters of the Mi-8 type in the interests of the Russian Ministry of Defense.

The study was published by the Frontelligence Insight intelligence and analytical group.

It recalls that during the Soviet era, more than 12,000 Mi-8 helicopters were produced in various modifications, including export versions.

Currently, the production of these machines is concentrated at two enterprises – the Kazan Helicopter Plant and the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant, which are part of the state defense conglomerate Rostec.

The number of Mi-8 helicopters in service with the Russian Aerospace Forces is estimated at about 300.

At the same time, the actual fleet is significantly larger, as these machines are also operated by other security and government agencies, including the FSB, the FSB Border Guard Service, the Rosgvardia, and a number of federal ministries.

The researchers assessed the current production rate based on an analysis of contracts for components, including an order for 40 IS-264A-2 thermometers for 2025.

According to the technical documentation of the Mi-8, two such devices are installed on one helicopter, which suggests that about 20 machines could be produced under this order.

It is important to note that these figures refer exclusively to helicopters manufactured for the Russian Ministry of Defense and do not include vehicles intended for emergency response services or other government agencies.

Thus, the actual production capacity could be higher, unless all available resources are directed exclusively to meet military needs.

This also indicates Russia’s limited but stable ability to maintain and upgrade its fleet of Mi-8 helicopters in the face of war and sanctions pressure.

According to the ORYX service, the Russians have lost at least 48 helicopters of this type, including one that was captured.