OREANDA-NEWS.   Russian Helicopters, a subsidiary of Oboronprom, part of Rostec State Corporation, demonstrated the medical versions of the light Ansat and Ka-226T helicopters to officials at Zashchita, the Russian National Centre for Disaster Medicine, as part of a conference to mark the 20th anniversary of the Centre.

Zashchita Director Sergei Goncharov noted the potential of the new helicopters for use in emergency situations; when every second counts, helicopter ambulances are invaluable as they do not get held up by traffic, and can therefore arrive at the scene much faster. Goncharov noted that the helicopters are equipped with the latest medical units and are perfectly suited for missions to protect and save human lives.

Helicopters have a key part to play in helping victims of road accidents and emergency situations. If medical assistance is provided as quickly as possible their chances of survival can more than double, and the after-effects of road accidents, heart attacks and strokes can be reduced by 70%.

Manufacturing specialised helicopters for local and regional emergency and medical services is a core priority for Russian Helicopters. The version of the Ansat on show at Zashchita is designed for emergency medical evacuation and medical transportation purposes. It can reach speeds of 275 km/h and has a range of more than 500 km. The Ansat’s spacious salon can accommodate two stretcher patients and all necessary medical equipment, and provides enough space for medical staff to work in.