Kamov Ka-226

The Kamov Ka-226 "Sergei" is a small, twin-engined Russian utility helicopter. The Ka-226 features an interchangeable mission pod, rather than a conventional cabin, allowing the use of various accommodation or equipment configurations. The Ka-226 entered service in 2002.

Variants of the Ka-226 have the NATO reporting name of Hoodlum, however Kamov's own name for the Ka-226 is Sergei.

Development
A twin turbine version of the successful Kamov Ka-26, (a single turbine version was called the Kamov Ka-126) the Ka-226 was initially announced in 1990. Originally developed to meet the requirements of the Russian disaster relief ministry, the aircraft first flew on 4 September 1997. Certification to Russian AP-29 "A" and "B" transport categories was granted on 31 October 2003. The Ka-226 entered production at "Motor Sich", Zaporozhye, Ukraine.

Design
The design is a refinement of the proven Ka-26, featuring interchangeable mission pods. The aircraft is fitted with a new rotor system, increased visibility nose, and new passenger cabin design. The Ka-226 also features a new transmission system and is made largely from composite materials.

The aircraft is fitted with trademark Kamov coaxial rotors, of advanced composite design, making the Ka-226 highly maneouverable and eliminating the need for a tail rotor.

Variants
Search and rescue, medivac, disaster relief and patrol variants have been developed for the Russian Emergency Ministry. Air ambulance, police and fire fighting variants have been developed for the Russian government.


 * Ka-226A
 * Utility helicopter.


 * Ka-226-50
 * Described initially as "improved version", but now appears to apply to all standard models.


 * Ka-226AG
 * Gazprom specific variant.


 * Ka-226T
 * Instead of Rolls-Royce 250C engines, this variant is fitted with the more powerful Turbomeca Arrius 2G1. Each engine provides 670 shp, increasing the service ceiling to around 7000m, providing improved high altitude and high temperature operation.


 * Ka-226U
 * Dual control training variant.

Operators

 * Russian Air Force
 * Russian Air Force