Russia plans to double Mi-8 helicopter production by 2027 (defence24.com)

• 72 Mi-8MTV-1 planned for 2026-2027 (37 in 2026, 35 in 2027)
• Engine deliveries not starting until September 2026
• National Wealth Fund used to finance defense production

"Russia intends to produce 72 Mi-8MTV-1 transport helicopters in 2026-2027, nearly double earlier estimates, according to leaked documents obtained by Dallas Analytics. The plan aims to offset combat losses in Ukraine and prepare for a long-term confrontation with NATO. Production faces bottlenecks: engines from United Engine Corporation will only be available from September 2026, and financing relies on the National Welfare Fund."