The Advanced Heavy Lifter is a large helicopter project developed by Aviation Industry Corporation of China.
In 2009, Avic projected a civil Advanced Heavy Lifter (AHL), likely also useful to the Chinese military.In 2014, the 6,000 kW (8,000 hp) Chinese WZ-20 was reportedly selected.In 2015, the joint project with Russian Helicopters grew to, with a seven blade main rotor and a ceiling.In 2016, Avic took control, leaving Russian Helicopters as a supplier, presumably of the transmission.In 2018, maximum weight grew again to .[1]
To power it, China will choose between the Ivchenko Progress D-136T manufactured by Ukraine’s Motor-Sich, powering the current Mi-26, and the Russian PD-12V turboshaft developed from the Aviadvigatel PD-14 core for an updated Mi-26.After a $2 billion investment, AVIC hopes to produce 200.
The takeoff weight and a MTOW allow for a internal payload or a external one.AVIC targets a range of 800 km (432 nmi), a cruise of 270 km/h (146 kn) and a ceiling.Design targets are closer to the Sikorsky CH-53K than the MTOW Russian Mil Mi-26.[2] The CH-53K is the largest US helicopter.[1]