Czechs sign deal to upgrade Mi-171Sh fleet
All 15 helicopters will receive new transponders, while some will be modernised with new avionics and communication systems
The Czech MoD on 8 December signed a contract with state-run LOM Praha to modernise the Czech Air Force fleet of 15 Mi-171Sh transport helicopters.
The contract is valid until October 2026.
All helicopters will be upgraded with new EW-resistant onboard transponders that meet NATO and civilian air traffic control standards. Eight will feature completely upgraded avionics, with new communication and navigation systems as well as multifunction displays for both pilots.
Lightweight ballistic protection will also be installed on three helicopters to reduce their weight, and a medevac kit will be added to one Mi-171Sh.
Lubor Koudelka, Deputy Minister of Defence for the Management of the Armaments and Acquisitions, said: ‘The use of Mi-171 transport helicopters in the Czech Army is expected for about 15 years. Therefore, it is necessary to modernise them to meet all the requirements for further operation.’
Under the CZK1.2 billion deal, LOM Praha (already the main MRO provider in the Czech Republic for the Mi-171Sh) will also build a prototype helicopter that includes all elements of the modernisation programme.
The MoD in August 2019 announced its intention to extend the operational lifespan of the Mi-171Sh fleet into the 2030s. At the time, it planned to enable those Mi-171Shs with a rear cargo ramp to carry 463L master pallets, but this was not specified in the latest announcement.
The Czech Mi-171Sh fleet has undergone several previous upgrades to elevate it to NATO standards, notably between 2004 and 2006.
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