IBG Models 1/72 Mil Mi-17 in Polish Air Force # 72907

The Mil Mi-17 (also known as the Mi-8MT) is a versatile Soviet-designed utility helicopter widely used by the Polish Air Force.

Known for its reliability and adaptability, the Mi-17 serves multiple roles, including transport, search and rescue, and medical evacuation.

Key Features:
Design: Medium-lift, twin-engine helicopter with a robust airframe and high versatility.
Engines: Equipped with two Klimov TV3-117 turboshaft engines, each producing around 1,950 shp, enabling a maximum speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
Capacity: Can carry up to 24 passengers or approximately 4,000 kg (8,800 lbs) of cargo internally, or up to 4,500 kg (9,920 lbs) externally.
Armament: Capable of being fitted with various weaponry for armed roles, including machine guns, rockets, and anti-tank missiles, though primarily used in non-combat roles by Poland.
Avionics: Modernized versions feature advanced avionics, navigation systems, and night-vision capabilities for enhanced operational effectiveness.

Operational Use:
Transport: Utilized for troop and cargo transport, supporting both military and humanitarian missions.
Search and Rescue (SAR): Deployed in search and rescue missions, leveraging its spacious cabin and hoist system to recover personnel from difficult terrains or disaster zones.
Medical Evacuation: Configured for medical evacuation with the capacity to transport injured personnel, equipped with necessary medical supplies and equipment.
Multirole Capabilities: Flexible design allows for rapid reconfiguration to support various missions, making it a key asset in Polish military operations.

Service History:
Acquisition: Entered service with the Polish Air Force in the late 1980s and 1990s, replacing older models and augmenting the fleet with modern capabilities.
Deployment: Used extensively in domestic operations and international missions, including NATO and United Nations peacekeeping efforts.
Upgrades: Continually modernized to incorporate new technologies and systems, enhancing its operational life and efficiency.

The Mil Mi-17 remains a crucial component of the Polish Air Force, valued for its robustness, versatility, and ability to perform a wide range of missions under varying conditions.

Its continued use underscores its effectiveness and adaptability in both military and humanitarian roles.