Ka-32

Kamov · Soviet Union · first flew 1980 · helicopter

The Kamov Ka-32 is the civil and utility counterpart of the Ka-27 naval helicopter, using coaxial rotors for precise heavy-lift and confined-area work.

Recognition (WEFT)

WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.

Spot it by:

• Civil coaxial utility helicopter
• Compact spray-proof fuselage
• No tail rotor

Look for the twin coaxial main rotors and complete lack of a tail rotor, a short spray-resistant fuselage, twin fins and the stocky proportions shared with the naval Ka-27.

Specifications

• The Ka-32 has a length of 11.3 m (37 ft).
• It has a wingspan of 15.9 m (52 ft).
• Its maximum speed is 250 km/h (155 mph).
• Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Flown from around 1980, the Ka-32 adapted the compact folding Ka-27 airframe for civil transport, logging, construction and firefighting. Its coaxial layout gives a small footprint and strong wind stability, ideal for ship and mountain operations.

Variants

Versions include the Ka-32T transport, the Ka-32S all-weather maritime model and firefighting configurations with belly tanks and water cannon. Later Ka-32A11BC variants gained Western certification for external-load operations.

Where you'll see it

The Ka-32 works worldwide in firefighting and heavy-lift roles and has appeared on the European civil scene, though it is uncommon in the UK; its precise hovering suits urban construction and forest fire duty. It has no British military use.

Related aircraft

• Ka-50 Chernaya Akula (Black Shark)
• Ka-29
• Ka-31
• Kamov Ka-27 Helix
• Aérospatiale HH-65 Dolphin
• Helibras HB355F Esquilo Bi
• Aérospatiale AS355 Écureuil 2
• Agusta-Bell AB412 Grifone

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