Mi-10K flying crane M.L.Mil

22k photo of Mi-10K prototype on the ground (and in flight) from All Helicopters of The World

Modification of Mi-10, with stronger accent on construction and loading-unloading operations ("K" comes from Russian KPAH, crane). First distinctive difference - short undercarriage legs, so comes another explanation of the "K" - Korotkonogij, short-legged. Some appear to have narrowed tail fin chord.

Very nice photo (78k) of Mi-10K from Airshow & Museums-Fotos

Chin dustbin is replaced by backward-facing operator's cabin. Operator (usually one of pilots) has full set of flight and winch controls. Unrestricted view allows high precision operations with loads up to 8500kg. Special autopilot system is designed for Mi-10K to prevent loads swinging.

Mi-10K working with Ladoga construction company

First flight of Mi-10K took place in January 1965. Production started in 1968, even before the State Acceptance Trials were passed on October 30 1969.

14 machines only were built and used mostly in rural areas, so public appearance of Mi-10K are a rare occasion. One aircraft (SSSR-29115) was examined at Paris in May 1967, and the comment was made that "it appeared to have been used fairly frequently". Next time Mi-10K appeared on public only in 1972 on Moscow civil aircraft exhibition.

In March 1966 possible engine upgrade was reported (to D-25VF, 6500hp each). Slung load with new engine could be increased to 14000kg.

According to State Institute for Civil Aviation (GosNIIGA), Mi-10K is 1.5 times cheaper than Mi-6 when used for construction (bridges, power lines, drilling platforms, oil pipelines, heavy industrial equipment, communication towers).

Predecessors	Modifications
Mi-10	None