AI-9V

AI-9V auxiliary power unit for helicopter engine start

AI-9V is an auxiliary gas-turbine engine used as an auxiliary power unit on Mi and Kamov helicopters. The unit provides autonomous compressed air and electrical power for the aircraft when the main engines are not operating or when backup power is required. Its main role is to supply bleed air for starting main engines of the TV3-117 family and to provide DC electrical power for onboard systems. This allows the helicopter to perform engine start, ground checks and system operation at remote sites without relying on external ground support equipment.

Compressed air supply from the AI-9V

The AI-9V produces compressed air for pneumatic starting of the helicopter’s main engines. Bleed air is extracted from the compressor and directed to the engine starting system, where it drives pneumatic starters during the start cycle. This function is especially important for Mi-8 / Mi-17 family helicopters operating away from prepared airfields, where external air-start equipment may not be available. The APU increases operational independence and reduces unnecessary operation of the main engines during ground preparation, pre-flight checks and servicing.

Electrical power generation through AI-9V

In addition to its pneumatic start function, the AI-9V can supply electrical power to the helicopter onboard network. The unit operates with a starter-generator system and provides DC output for system checks, ground operation and emergency backup use. Electrical supply from the APU allows selected onboard equipment to be powered without running the main propulsion engines. In emergency conditions, the AI-9V can also support the onboard DC network if the main generator source is unavailable, depending on aircraft configuration and operational procedures.

Gas-turbine construction of the AI-9V

The AI-9V is a compact single-shaft gas-turbine engine with a centrifugal compressor and combustion chamber. It operates on standard aviation kerosene fuels, including T-1, TS-1 and RT. The compressor supplies both the airflow required for engine operation and the bleed air used by the pneumatic starting system. The design is intended for repeated start cycles, ground use and in-flight support according to aircraft documentation. Since the unit combines pneumatic and electrical functions, inspection normally includes engine condition, fuel system, air system, starter-generator interface, sensors and documentation records.

Application of AI-9V on Mi and Kamov helicopters

The AI-9V is installed on helicopters including Mi-8, Mi-17, Mi-171, Mi-24, Mi-28, Ka-32, Ka-50 and Ka-52, depending on the aircraft version and equipment configuration. On these platforms, the unit supports autonomous engine starting and electrical supply for ground and flight operations. Applicability should still be confirmed through aircraft documentation, because installation details, generator configuration and associated equipment may differ by helicopter model, production year and modification. For Mi-8 / Mi-17 applications, the AI-9V is commonly associated with starting TV3-117 family engines.

Identification, weight and documentation of AI-9V

The unit may be referenced as AI-9V, AI9V, АИ-9В or АИ9В. Weight figures can vary in different documents depending on what is included in the weighed configuration. The dry engine weight is 57 kg, while weight with the STG-3 starter-generator may be higher, and the complete APU installation limit may include accessories, automation units, wiring, sensors and residual oil. For supply, it is useful to confirm the required configuration, starter-generator inclusion, condition, passport availability, service log, maintenance records and remaining operating life.

Product Type: Auxiliary gas-turbine engine / auxiliary power unit
Designation: AI-9V
Alternative Designations: AI9V, АИ-9В, АИ9В
Function: Main engine starting, electrical supply and onboard systems testing
Application / Where Used: Auxiliary power unit and engine start air supply systems
System / Installation Area: Helicopter APU compartment / auxiliary engine installation area according to aircraft documentation
Compatible Aircraft / Equipment: Mi-8, Mi-17, Mi-171, Mi-24, Mi-28, Ka-32, Ka-50, Ka-52 and related variants
Associated Main Engines: TV3-117 family engines, depending on helicopter configuration
Engine Type: Single-shaft gas-turbine auxiliary engine
Compressor Type: Centrifugal compressor
Rated Speed: 36,750 ± 475 rpm
Bleed Air Mass Flow: 0.4 kg/s
Bleed Air Pressure: Not less than 0.29 MPa
Bleed Air Temperature: Approximately 433 K
Generator Output Power: Up to 3 kW
Generator Voltage: 27 V DC
Fuel Consumption: Not more than 75 kg/h
Fuel Type: T-1, TS-1, RT aviation kerosene
Dry Weight, Engine Only: 57 kg
Weight with STG-3 Starter-Generator: Approximately 65 kg
Maximum APU Installation Weight Reference: Not more than 70 kg, depending on equipment configuration
Starter-Generator: STG-3, where installed
Operating Role: Autonomous pneumatic engine start and DC electrical power supply
Condition: As applicable
Technical Documentation: Passport, service log, maintenance records, aircraft operating and maintenance documentation

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