The Mil Mi-8MTV2 (NATO Hip E) is the armed version of the Russian-built, medium lift twin-turbine combat transport and utility helicopter. The Mi-8MTV2’s six external hard points enable it to carry a wide variety of weapons. These include up to 6 x 100 kg or 250 kg, or 2 x 500 kg bombs; 23 mm and 30 mm gun pods; and 80mm rocket pods (120 rockets - HE, AP, Frag, Illum). The Hip E can also mount 12.7mm (0.5 inch) heavy machine guns in a side pod and on a swivel door-pintle.
One of the most successful military helicopters ever built, the Mil Mi-8 entered Soviet Air Force service in 1967. Able to carry up to 24 fully-armed combat troops, the Mi-8T series was also adapted to fire unguided-rockets. More than 17,000 Mil Mi-8 variants have been built, and it is in use with 50 countries.
The Hip E has a cruising speed of approximately 230 kph, a combat radius of 600 km and can carry loads of up to 6000 kg. It has seen combat all over the world, most extensively in the 1979-1989 Russian-Afghan War, where it proved to be a robust, effective and versatile workhorse. Exported widely, the Mil Mi-8 remains in service with many armed forces.
Developed by Belsimtek with help from a seasoned Mi-8 pilot, the DCS: Mi-8MTV2 ‘Magnificent Eight’ was created by the same expert team behind the DCS: UH-1H Huey. Take the controls and enjoy the space where virtual meets reality.
