The Mil Mi-8 (Russian Ми-8, NATO reporting name “Hip”) is a medium twin-turbine transport helicopter that can also act as a gunship. The first prototype, the W-8, flew in 9 July 1961. It was powered by a single AI-24V engine. A second prototype, with two AI-24V engines, made its first flight on 17 September 1962. After a few changes it was introduced into the Soviet Air Force by 1967 as the Mi-8, and remains in production as of 2009.

The Mi-8 is one of the world’s most-produced helicopters, and is used by over 50 countries. There are numerous variants, including the Mi-8T which is armed with rockets and anti-tank guided missiles, in addition to carrying twenty-four soldiers. The Mil Mi-17 export version is employed by around 20 countries; its equivalent in Russian service in the Mi-8M series. The naval Mil Mi-14 and attack Mil Mi-24 are also derived from the Mi-8.