Mil Mi-8 facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Mil Mi-8
Russian Mil Mi-8.
Role	Helicopter
National origin	USSR
Manufacturer	Mil.
First flight	July 7th, 1961.
Introduction	1967
Status	Active
Primary user	Soviet Air Force.
Number built	more than 17000 examples.

The Mil Mi-8 is one of the most famous helicopters ever built. It was designed in the Soviet Union during the Cold War. This amazing helicopter is used for many jobs, like carrying people and supplies, and even for military missions.

More than 50 countries around the world use the Mi-8. It's also the base for other helicopters like the Mil Mi-14 and Mil Mi-17.

History of the Mi-8 Helicopter

The Mil Mi-8 was first designed in the late 1950s. Its first flight happened on July 7th, 1961. After more testing, it officially started being used in 1967.

This helicopter was built by the Mil design bureau in the Soviet Union. They wanted to create a strong and reliable helicopter. It could carry many people or a lot of cargo.

What the Mi-8 Does

The Mil Mi-8 is known for being very versatile. This means it can do many different jobs.

Carrying People and Supplies

One of its main jobs is to transport people and cargo. It can carry up to 24 passengers. It can also lift heavy loads, both inside its cabin and slung underneath. This makes it useful for reaching places that are hard to get to.

Military Missions

Many countries use the Mi-8 for military tasks. It can move soldiers and equipment quickly. Some versions are even armed with weapons for attack missions. These helicopters play a big role in supporting ground forces.

Rescue and Special Jobs

The Mi-8 is also used for important rescue missions. It helps in emergencies like natural disasters. It can pick up people from dangerous areas. Some Mi-8s are set up as flying hospitals. Others help with firefighting by dropping water on fires.

Why the Mi-8 is Important

The Mil Mi-8 is one of the most produced helicopters ever. More than 17,000 have been built. This huge number shows how successful and reliable it is.

It's known for being tough and able to fly in many different weather conditions. Its simple design makes it easy to maintain. This is why so many countries still use it today.

Different Types of Mi-8s

Over the years, many different versions of the Mi-8 have been made. Some are for passengers, some for cargo, and some for military use. Each version is designed for a specific job. This adaptability is a key reason for its long success.

Images for kids

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  Passenger cabin of a Shree Airlines aircraft

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  Cockpit view

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  Finnish Mi-8 in Hernesaari, Helsinki, in 2005

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  Mi-8MSB on a 2016 Ukrainian stamp

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  Croatian Mil Mi-8MTV-1

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  Serbian Mi-8T cargo helicopter

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  Mi-8 helicopter cockpit

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  Ukrainian Ministry of Emergency Situations Mi-8MSB picking up water for aerial firefighting purposes.

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  Mil Mi-8 3-view drawing

See also

In Spanish: Mil Mi-8 para niños