23-May-2010 Source: HeliHub.com
The recent Heli-Russia 2010 event was used to launch the Mi-34S1 model, a piston engined version of the Mi-34 built to FAR27 standards and aimed directly at the Robinson R44 market. The current Mi-34S is powered by the radial Vedeneyev M-14V-26 engine, while the new model will feature the piston M9FV from the Voronezh Mechanical Plant.
With a purchase price approximately 20% below the R44, the Mi-34SI will carry a 350kg payload at a maximum speed of 215kmh and 1500 hrs between major overhauls – somewhat lower than the 2200 on the R44.
The first flight model of the Mi-34S1 will be presented at the Moscow MAKS air show in 2011, with serial production starting the year after.