The Modernized Kamov Ka-27M (NATO reporting name ‘Helix’) naval helicopter makes maiden flight in Kaliningrad Oblast, Russia. The Ka-27M is an extreme upgraded version of the Ka-27 multi-purpose naval helicopter being developed to meet the requirements of the Russian Navy in the 2010-2020 timeframe. The Ka-27M is intended to perform anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) missions. Scope of the modernization includes Phazotron-NIIR Boomerang combat system coupled with the new FHA active phased array radar, the new Kema sonobuoy system with RGB-16MK sonobuoys, upgraded dipping sonar, new MMS-27 fixed magnetic anomaly detector, upgraded ESM, datalink and signals intelligence systems. The radar is mounted under the fuselage and provides all-around vision in the search and detection of surface, air, and ground targets. This provides the Ka-27M with all-around visibility and the ability to detect all types of ships and submarines; detection and destruction range has grown.
Modernization works of the Ka-27M helicopters were held within the framework of a government defense contract. According to the decision of the Directorate of aviation and weapons of the Department of the Russian Ministry of Defense for provision of government defense contracts, in late June the construction and operational documentation of the Ka-27M helicopter was validated for serial production. The modernization of the helicopters will be held at the Kumertau Aviation Production Enterprise. Modern methods of transmitting information to land and ship command posts are installed on the helicopter; connection with other helicopters is modernized. Ka-27M deliveries to Pacific and Northern fleets will follow.
Serial upgrading of Ka-27Ms to the level of combatant helicopters was planned to begin in 2014. By the end of 2016, 46 Ka-27PLs had been scheduled for modernization, commissioned by the Russian Navy. The first eight serial Ka-27M were transferred in December 2016. Mass production approved in June 2017 and started in early 2018. A new delivery of 5 helos in October 2018. The Kamov Ka-27 is a military helicopter developed for the Soviet Navy, and currently in service in various countries including Russia, Ukraine, Vietnam, China, South Korea, and India. Variants include the Ka-29 assault transport, the Ka-28 downgraded export version, and the Ka-32 for civilian use. Multirole Ka-27 type helicopters of various modifications are currently the basis of the helicopter units of the Russian Naval Aviation. They provide aerial reconnaissance at sea, anti-submarine protection of naval groups, detection, tracing and destruction of submarines and ships, perform search-and-rescue operations for crews of aerial vehicles and ships who are in distress; they also implement transport tasks for ensuring successful activity of naval groups.
