A-036-1

Measurement function of the A-036-1

The A-036-1 operates on the frequency modulation principle. The transceiver sends a radio signal toward the underlying surface and receives the reflected signal back. By processing the transmitted and received signal relationship, the radio altimeter determines true height above the surface below the aircraft. This type of measurement is important because it gives actual clearance over terrain or water, not barometric altitude. The output can be used by cockpit height indicators, warning systems and automatic control equipment depending on aircraft configuration.

A-036-1 in low-altitude flight operations

The A-036-1 is intended for low-altitude measurement systems where fast and reliable height information is required. It is especially relevant during approach, landing, hovering, descent, flight over water, terrain-following profiles and other low-height operating modes. The system may provide measurement up to 750 meters, with extended range up to 1500 meters depending on modification and system configuration. In practice, the exact operating range must be confirmed by the aircraft documentation and the installed radio-altimeter version.

Aircraft application of the A-036-1

The A-036-1 can be installed on different aircraft types requiring low-altitude radio-height measurement. Typical applications include helicopter platforms such as Mi-8MT, Mi-17, Mi-26, Ka-32 and other aircraft equipped with compatible A-036 radio altimeter systems. Since installation can vary by aircraft version, equipment set and modification, compatibility should be checked against the aircraft parts catalog, avionics layout and radio altimeter documentation before supply or replacement.

System integration of the A-036-1

The A-036-1 works together with transmitting and receiving antennas, cockpit altitude indicators, warning circuits and associated wiring. In many configurations, it is linked with height indicators from the A-034-4 family or similar radio-altimeter display instruments. The transceiver is usually installed in the avionics compartment and mounted on a vibration-isolated frame. Since it is a system block, troubleshooting should include the transceiver, antenna paths, cables, connectors, cockpit indicator, power supply and related protection circuits.

Technical characteristics of the A-036-1

The A-036-1 operates in the radio altimeter frequency band around 4300 MHz, with the system range commonly specified as 4200–4400 MHz. The unit uses frequency modulation with a frequency deviation of 45 MHz. Transmitter power is approximately 0.15 W, and receiver sensitivity is listed as −87 dB/W. The system is powered from a 27 V DC onboard network and has a readiness time of up to 3 seconds. These parameters should be checked against the passport of the specific unit, because radio-altimeter modifications may differ by execution.

Supply and identification of the A-036-1

For procurement, the designation A-036-1 should be stated clearly, including the Cyrillic form А-036-1 when required by Russian-language documentation. Alternative descriptions such as radio altimeter transceiver, A-036 system transceiver or low-altitude radio altimeter unit can help identify the item, but the exact designation remains the main reference. Before installation, the unit should be checked for condition, completeness, passport, storage history, connector condition, mounting frame compatibility and test status.