Russia and China are moving forward with their jointly developed Advanced Heavy Lift (AHL) helicopter project, designed to operate effectively in challenging high-altitude regions such as Tibet. Led by China’s Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the program is currently undergoing state audits before transitioning toward production. Russian industry is supplying critical technologies, including gearboxes and other complex helicopter systems. The aircraft is expected to carry payloads between 14 and 16 tons, filling the gap between Russia’s Mi-171 and Mi-26 helicopters. China reportedly plans to acquire around 200 helicopters under a program valued at approximately $20 billion.
