The Mi-26 was designed for military and civil use and intended to be able to lift more than any previous helicopter. The first Mi-26 flew on December 14, 1977 and the first entered service in the Soviet military in 1983.
The Mi-26 was the first helicopter to operate with an eight-blade rotor. While it is only slightly heavier than the Mil Mi-6, it can lift more: 20 tonnes (44,000 lb).
Taken at Kabul Airport May 2006
The Mi-26T is a Civil cargo/freight transport version.
