MURMANSK, September 1. /TASS-DEFENSE/. Helicopters of the Northern fleet trained flying over the Kola Peninsula. The exercise engaged ten Mi-8 helicopters, which trained landing with one operating engine day and night in bad weather, the fleet said.

"Mi-8 squadron trained flying over the Kola Peninsula. The pilots selected landing sites in hard-of-access terrain. They flew and landed the helicopters with one operating engine," it said.

Upgraded Mi-8 have VK-2500 engines with enhanced capacity and transmission to ensure operations in the mountains and hot climate. The helicopter has a new auxiliary TA-14 power plant with high-altitude startup and big energy release and is armed with modern weapons. The lighter metal-ceramic armor of an increased space protects the crew and important units of the craft.