The Myanmar Air Force officially commissioned three Russian-built Mi-38T medium transport helicopters and two Chinese Y-8F-200W airlifters during a ceremony in Naypyidaw on November 7, 2025. Verified imagery from the event confirms the induction, highlighting deepening Russia–China coordination in strengthening Myanmar’s air mobility capabilities.
According to the Myanmar Defense & Security Institute (MDSI), the acceptance took place outside the traditional December 15 Air Force Day — an unusual move signaling urgency and strategic value. Open-source footage of the airbase and aircraft corroborated the timing and number of deliveries.
Mi-38T: Russia’s Modern Medium-Lift Platform
Built by Kazan Helicopters and powered by twin Klimov TV7-117V engines, the Mi-38T represents Russia’s latest generation of military transport helicopters. It boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 15,600 kg, top speed of 290 km/h, and a service ceiling of 6,300 meters. The aircraft can carry 40 troops or 5 tons of cargo, with a range of 500 km when fully loaded.
Compared with Myanmar’s current Mi-17 fleet, the Mi-38T offers significant improvements in lift capacity, cabin volume, and performance in “hot and high” environments. Its rear loading ramp and spacious interior allow for rapid loading of pallets or light vehicles, while underslung lift capability enables the transport of artillery, generators, and fuel to remote areas.
China’s Y-8 Airlifters Add Strategic Reach
The inducted Y-8F-200W aircraft, built by Shaanxi and derived from the Antonov An-12, can carry up to 20 tons of cargo or 90 troops. Earlier sightings of Myanmar-marked airframes at Kunming Changshui International Airport indicated their transfer route prior to delivery.
Expanding Defense Ties with Moscow and Beijing
Contract data suggest two Mi-38Ts were delivered in standard transport configuration and one as a VIP variant, valued collectively at around €59.7 million. The development confirms Myanmar as the first foreign military operator of the Mi-38T.
Russia’s defense partnership with Myanmar has deepened over the past decade, encompassing deliveries of Su-30SME fighters, Yak-130 trainers, and Mi-35 gunships, alongside joint naval exercises in the Andaman Sea in 2023.
The combined use of Mi-38T helicopters and Y-8 transports provides Myanmar with both tactical and theater-level air mobility — enabling heavy lift between central bases and forward airstrips, as well as agile helicopter logistics for mountainous and remote terrain.
Analysts view this development as part of a sustained Russia–China supply network to Myanmar’s military, aimed at strengthening its independent airlift and operational resilience amid shifting regional security dynamics.
