Maksim covers aerospace developments in Central Asia for Aviation Week. He has worked for Russia's Air Transport Observer magazine and was in charge of several ATO sister aerospace publications after working for the Moscow-based CAST defense think tank.
Maksim has a degree in international relations from MGIMO University, Moscow.
MOSCOW — The Russian military continues its rearmament effort, with a plan to buy its first amphibious aircraft in decades. The Russian Defense Ministry placed an order on May 24 with Taganrog-based Beriev company for six Be-200s. The contract’s value is 8.4 billion rubles ($269 million), and deliveries are to be completed by the end of 2016.
Cuba's national carrier Cubana has a serious problem: It needs more aircraft to respond to the growing tourist industry in its homeland, but the U.S. trade embargo against Cuba makes it impossible for the airline to buy aircraft that contain more than 10% U.S.-made components.
MOSCOW — Russian Helicopters is planning to resume the development of the re-engined Mil Mi-34S1 light helicopter. The Mi-34S1 is envisioned as an improved version of 1,450-kg (3,200-lb.) Mi-34 training and sport rotorcraft, which suspended production in the early 2000s. This program initially called for replacement of the outdated 325-hp M14V26V piston engine with the 365-hp M9FV variant and installation of new avionics and an improved interior.
