More U.S. radar for Russian helicopters

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FARMINGDALE, N.Y., Jan. 25 (UPI) -- More Russian Mi-17V-5 helicopters destined for the Indian air force will carry U.S.-made RDR-1600 weather avoidance search and rescue radars.

Telephonics Corp., which has headquarters in New York state, said it will supply 85 radar systems under a contract from Kazan Helicopters, the Russian manufacturer of the Mi-8/17 family of helicopters.

An earlier order was for 93 systems.

"Being chosen by Kazan and the Indian air force for the second time demonstrates the effectiveness and reliability of the RDR-1600 in challenging environments," said Kevin McSweeney, Telephonics' chief operating officer. "We're pleased to partner with Kazan Helicopters in support of the Indian air force."

The Mi-17V-5 is a twin-engine transport helicopter than can also be used as a gunship. The RDR-1600, a high-performance airborne, weather avoidance, and surveillance radar features weather alert, beacon detection and ground mapping operational modes.

Telephonics said deliveries of the units to Kazan, part of Russian Helicopters, will begin this summer and be completed next year.