Portugal dispatches six Kamow helicopters to Ukraine amidst uncertainty

Portugal purchased six Kamow Ka-32A helicopters in the 11BC modification in 2007, intending to use them for personnel transport and firefighting. However, according to Army Recognition, the authorities had trouble maintaining them properly, which resulted in none of the helicopters being operational until April 2022.

The attempt to service the machines was not helped by the expulsion of the Russian Kamow maintenance team from Portugal and the closure of the helicopter service in Ponte de Sôr. Due to issues with the machines, in 2022, then Portuguese Minister of National Defence Helena Carreiras decided to donate six Kamow Ka-32A11BC helicopters to Ukraine.

Kyiv was informed about the condition of the machines caused by the component shortage, and despite this, the authorities decided to accept the help. Portugal does not disclose the current condition of the helicopters and whether they are fit for flight. However, photos have appeared online showing that the helicopters have already been shipped to Ukraine. It is not known when they will reach the front.

Kamow introduced the Ka-32A model in 1986 as a medium-sized helicopter and a civilian version of the military Ka-27PS, which was based on the older Ka-25 and Ka-27. It was originally intended for reconnaissance flights over the Arctic. Still, during development, its utility was increased so that the Ka-32A could perform search missions, transport cargo, and support allies at sea.

The Ka-32A can carry 13 passengers inside or transport a load of up to 5 tonnes on an external sling. The helicopter measures nearly 12.5 metres in length and reaches about 5.5 metres in height with a main rotor width of 16 metres. It is powered by two TV3-117VMA engines, each with 2,200 horsepower. They propel the structure to speeds of 259 kilometres per hour. The maximum range of the Ka-32A is 800 kilometres. Its equipment includes emergency landing tools and a range of radar and navigation systems that increase the utility of the machine during operations.

The Ka-32A11BC version, which Portugal is donating to Ukraine, stands out from the basic Ka-32A with the presence of a new steering assistance system. It also includes new instrument markings to adapt the machine to international standards. According to Army Recognition, this model is mainly used for cargo transport and will most likely be used for this purpose in Ukraine.