Hey guys, First of all shout out to Overlord5453, he's the one who took the screenshots, second of all I took a break from building and being less active on sp, so I apologize for that, I just felt burnt out and needed some rest, I even catched up to the war thunder update!, so I hope you enjoy this build and more will be coming:D

The Mi-17A is a versatile, multi-role helicopter developed by the Russian aircraft manufacturer Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant. It is a variant of the Mi-8, one of the most successful and widely used Soviet-era helicopters, designed to fulfill a wide range of roles in both military and civilian operations. The Mi-17A is primarily intended for transport, cargo lifting, and personnel movement, but its adaptability also allows it to be used in search and rescue, medical evacuation, firefighting, and even as a platform for armed operations.

Design and Build

The Mi-17A retains many of the design features of the Mi-8, such as its robust, rugged airframe and powerful twin-engine configuration, but incorporates several improvements and modifications to meet specific mission requirements. One of its most distinguishing features is the large, spacious cabin with a high ceiling and wide doors, making it suitable for various cargo and personnel configurations. The rear of the helicopter is fitted with a large ramp, which allows for quick and efficient loading and unloading, especially in field conditions where traditional loading mechanisms might be impractical.

The Mi-17A's fuselage is designed to withstand harsh environments, offering enhanced durability in extreme weather conditions and rough terrain. This makes the Mi-17A especially well-suited for operations in high-altitude regions, jungles, deserts, and frozen landscapes.

Powerplant and Performance

The Mi-17A is powered by two Klimov TV3-117VM turboshaft engines, which provide excellent performance under a variety of operational conditions. The engines are mounted in a side-by-side configuration, which helps to maintain the helicopter’s balance and reduces the likelihood of catastrophic engine failure in the event of a malfunction. These engines give the Mi-17A a maximum speed of around 250 km/h (155 mph) and a range of up to 500 km (310 miles), depending on mission parameters and payload.

The helicopter's design allows it to operate in extremely challenging environments, such as high-altitude regions where many helicopters would struggle. Its high hover ceiling and excellent lift-to-weight ratio make it capable of operating in the thin air found at higher elevations, a feature that is particularly valuable in mountainous regions like the Himalayas, the Andes, or Afghanistan's rugged terrain.

Cargo and Transport Capabilities

One of the most important aspects of the Mi-17A is its transport capacity. It can carry up to 24 passengers, or a combination of personnel and cargo, inside its spacious cabin. The aircraft can also carry a maximum payload of approximately 4,000 kg (8,800 lbs). This makes the Mi-17A ideal for missions that require the movement of troops, heavy equipment, or humanitarian aid. It can be used for airlifting supplies, military equipment, and even vehicles, as well as transporting soldiers, medics, or rescue teams to difficult-to-reach locations.

The large rear ramp is one of the key features that enhances the Mi-17A's versatility. This ramp allows for rapid loading and unloading of equipment and personnel, especially in field operations where time is critical. In addition to cargo and troop transport, the Mi-17A is also capable of performing medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) missions, with space for stretchers or casualties in need of urgent care.

Operational Flexibility

While the Mi-17A is primarily designed for transport and logistics, it can be adapted for a variety of roles depending on mission requirements. The helicopter is equipped with a range of optional armament, including machine guns, rockets, and anti-aircraft weapons, which can be mounted on external pylons. This allows it to offer some degree of firepower in combat situations, though it is generally not as heavily armed as dedicated attack helicopters.

In addition to its military applications, the Mi-17A is widely used in civilian and humanitarian contexts. Many Mi-17As have been employed in disaster relief missions, firefighting, and peacekeeping operations. The helicopter’s rugged design and reliability make it particularly effective in challenging environments, and it has been deployed worldwide in regions prone to natural disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, and wildfires.

International Usage

The Mi-17A has seen widespread international use and is employed by military forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilian operators around the world. Its affordability, ease of maintenance, and adaptability have made it a popular choice in countries with diverse operational needs. It has been used by dozens of countries, including Afghanistan, India, several African nations, and various post-Soviet states, where it is relied upon for transport, rescue, and logistical support operations.

In addition to military use, the Mi-17A has been adapted for use in peacekeeping and UN missions, where it serves as a reliable transport platform for troops and humanitarian aid. The Mi-17A's civilian applications extend to roles like airlifting construction materials, firefighting, and operating as a transport helicopter for offshore oil rigs and remote mining operations.

Conclusion

Overall, the Mi-17A is a versatile, reliable, and highly capable helicopter that has earned its place as one of the world’s most widely used rotary-wing aircraft. Whether for military, humanitarian, or commercial purposes, its combination of rugged design, powerful performance, and extensive cargo and personnel capacity ensures it remains an essential tool in a wide variety of operational environments. The Mi-17A continues to serve as a workhorse helicopter, trusted by both military forces and civilian organizations in some of the most challenging and demanding conditions around the globe.

Thank you everyone for 18K, This never stop even when I'm not active! I am so grateful for all of you, more builds will be coming hopefully we reach platinum! thank you everyone and see you next time friends!!!