Current state and prospects of the helicopter industry in the Russian Federation

The article examines the current state of the helicopter industry in the Russian Federation. The factors that led to both unconditional successes and existing serious problems in the industry are analyzed. The latter should include, first of all, the aging of the helicopter fleet inherited from the USSR and still actively operating, shortcomings in staffing and difficulties in training new personnel, as well as the high price of new domestically produced helicopters. The analysis of the market for the consumption of helicopter services has been carried out. There is a decrease in demand for military equipment from traditional foreign customers in connection with the fulfillment of existing contractual obligations, as well as from the main consumers in the domestic market - oil producing and oil service companies. The prospects for the development of the industry are considered. Conclusions are drawn about its possible paths. The emergence of new customers for military equipment from developing countries and China, as well as an increase in demand for new civilian helicopters, in particular, in the CIS partner countries, is noted. Particular attention is paid to the role of the state in expanding the market and increasing demand for domestically produced helicopters. In particular, the role of national projects as the main driver of industry development is analyzed. Of greatest importance, according to the authors, is the development of such a field as the use of helicopters for medical and sanitary purposes.