Iran has signed an agreement with Russia for the acquisition of 21 Mi-171 helicopters, marking one of the largest helicopter orders announced by the country in recent years.
The contract was signed on June 17 between Russian Helicopters, part of the Rostec state corporation, and the Iranian Red Crescent Society. According to the Russian manufacturer, the aircraft will be used for medical evacuation, transport missions and other humanitarian operations.
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June 09, 2026
Russian Helicopters said the first aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2027.
The Mi-171 is a civilian derivative of the widely used Mi-8 and Mi-17 helicopter family, one of the most successful rotorcraft designs ever produced. The type is capable of carrying passengers, cargo or medical equipment and has been exported to dozens of countries.
The order comes as Iran seeks to modernize parts of its helicopter fleet, much of which consists of aging aircraft acquired decades ago. International sanctions have historically limited Tehran's access to Western-built aircraft and spare parts, forcing the country to rely heavily on Russian and domestically supported fleets.
Russian Helicopters described Iran as a longstanding partner and said the new agreement continues cooperation between the two countries in the aviation sector.
The deal also represents one of the first publicly announced Russian helicopter sales to Iran in several years.
The Mi-171 remains one of Russia's most important export rotorcraft, serving government agencies, emergency services and commercial operators worldwide. The helicopter can be configured for transport, search-and-rescue, firefighting and medical evacuation missions.
The acquisition was announced only days after Iran and the United States reached a preliminary agreement aimed at reducing tensions and opening the way for a gradual easing of some economic restrictions.
