RV-5M version V

RV-5M Version V airborne radio altimeter

The RV-5M Version V is an onboard radar radio altimeter designed for accurate measurement of true aircraft altitude above ground or water during low-altitude flight. The system was widely used on helicopters and aircraft before the A-037 family became more common. It was installed on Mi-8, Mi-14, Mi-24 and several fixed-wing platforms, depending on aircraft configuration and technical documentation.

Function of the RV-5M radio altimeter

The RV-5M provides continuous height measurement and supplies the crew with real-time altitude information through the cockpit indicator. The system measures the actual distance from the aircraft to the surface below, not barometric altitude. This is important during descent, landing, hover, low-level flight and operation over water or uneven terrain. The RV-5M also provides warning and status signals for crew awareness and connected avionics.

Complete RV-5M Version V configuration

The baseline supplied set includes the PP-5M transceiver, A-034-4-24 altitude indicator, two AR5-1 antennas, RA-5 shock-mount frame, GU4.850.668-29 main cable, GU4.850-759 power / connection cable and documentation. This configuration forms a complete ready-to-install radio altimeter set. The PP-5M performs signal generation, reception and processing, the AR5-1 antennas provide the microwave path, and the A-034-4-24 indicator displays altitude and warning information in the cockpit.

Operating principle of RV-5M

The RV-5M operates as a continuous-wave radar altimeter in the 4200–4400 MHz frequency band. The system transmits a frequency-modulated microwave signal toward the surface below the aircraft and receives the reflected return. The electronic units process the received signal and calculate true height in real time. Depending on the installed configuration and matched indicator, the system supports altitude ranges of 0–300 m, 0–750 m or 0–1000 m.

Warning, failure and control functions

The RV-5M provides visual and audio Danger Height warning when the aircraft descends below the selected threshold. It also supports Failure / INOP signaling and pulse outputs for integration with other onboard systems. The built-in health monitoring circuit provides a control indication of 15 ±1.5 m, allowing crew or maintenance personnel to check correct system response. If the system fails the control check or loses valid reflected signal, the radio-height indication should not be relied on until inspected.

Installation and aircraft integration

The PP-5M transceiver is installed on the RA-5 shock-mount frame and connected to two AR5-1 antennas, the A-034-4-24 cockpit indicator and the aircraft wiring through the supplied cables. The system receives 27 V DC and 115 V, 400 Hz power through the kit and aircraft wiring. Since radio altimeter performance depends on the full signal path, installation should be checked as a complete system: transceiver, antennas, indicator, cables, connectors, mounting frame and power supply.

Identification and supply of RV-5M Version V

For procurement, the system should be identified as RV-5M Version V radio altimeter set. Alternative references may include RV-5M, RV-5M set, PP-5M radio altimeter set or RV-5M with A-034-4-24 indicator. Before supply, it is important to confirm the required altitude range, indicator type, antenna set, cable part numbers, RA-5 frame availability, condition of each unit and documentation. Passport and operating manual are required for correct installation and service use.

Product Name: Radio Altimeter
Designation: RV-5M Version V
Product Type: Continuous-wave radar altimeter
Application / Where Used: Aircraft and helicopter low-altitude measurement
Typical Aircraft Application: Mi-8, Mi-14, Mi-24 and selected fixed-wing platforms, depending on aircraft documentation
Function: Measurement of true altitude above ground or water
Altitude Measurement Range: 0–300 m / 0–750 m / 0–1000 m, depending on configuration
Operating Frequency: 4200–4400 MHz
Residual Height H₀: 5.3 m
Accuracy, 0–10 m: ±0.6 m
Accuracy Above 10 m: ±0.6H
Indicator Error: ±0.08H
Danger Height Accuracy, 5–10 m: ±0.5 m
Danger Height Accuracy Above 10 m: ±(1 + 0.05H) m
Sensitivity, K-5 Path: ≥87 dB
Calibration Error: ±0.3H, automatic
Control Indication: 15 ±1.5 m
Warning Modes: Danger Height, Failure lamp and tone
Pulse Output “1 PC”: 10–700 m
Pulse Output “2 PC”: 10–1000 m
Power Supply: 27 V DC and 115 V, 400 Hz via kit / aircraft wiring
Warm-Up Time: Automatic
Continuous Operation: Up to 6 hours
Weight: 6.9 ±0.3 kg
Service Life: 12 years
Assigned Resource: 20,000 hours
Overhaul Interval: 12,000 hours
Storage Period Within Service Life: 2 years

Supplied Components:
– PP-5M transceiver
– A-034-4-24 altitude indicator
– AR5-1 antennas, 2 pcs
– RA-5 shock-mount frame
– GU4.850.668-29 main cable
– GU4.850-759 power / connection cable
– Passport and operating manual

Condition: As applicable
Documentation: Product passport and operating manual available

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Warranty
All products are covered by a standard 6-month warranty.
Extended warranty is available upon request and is agreed individually; it may affect the final product price.