Mil Mi-26

helicopter

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Last updated

July 22, 2026

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The Mil Mi-26 is a Soviet heavy transport helicopter, recognized as the world's largest production helicopter. It is capable of carrying substantial payloads, up to 20,000 kg (44,000 pounds). The advent of turbine engines significantly enhanced helicopter capabilities, providing more power and flexibility for operations at higher altitudes and temperatures. Turbine engines allowed for a wide range of missions, including military and civil uses, police work, medical evacuation, forestry, air and sea rescue, agricultural spraying, and construction.1

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Defying Gravity
7 of the Biggest Things That Ever Flew: Mi-26
The Russian Mi-26 is the world’s biggest helicopter currently in production. With a lift capability comparable to the U.S. C-130 cargo plane, the twin-turbine eight-rotor helicopter can carry cargoes up to 20 tons. While the C-130 had a significantly longer operational range, it required…
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The Russian Mi-26 is the world’s biggest helicopter currently in production. With a lift capability comparable to the U.S. C-130 cargo plane, the twin-turbine eight-rotor helicopter can carry cargoes up to 20 tons. While the C-130 had a significantly longer operational range, it required…
Read More