OREANDA-NEWS. Russian Helicopters, a subsidiary of Oboronprom, part of State Corporation Rostec and a leading global designer and manufacturer of helicopters, has been named Company of the Year 2013 among aviation manufacturers, one of the most prestigious Russian business awards.

Russian Helicopters was cited as a successful company that has made a noticeable contribution to strengthening a high-tech and strategically important sector of the Russian economy. CEO Alexander Mikheev received the award at a ceremony on 11 December in Moscow's Lotte Hotel.

“This award recognises the progress that Russian Helicopters has made in consolidating Russia's helicopter sector, and is just reward for the efforts of all of our designers, engineers and workers, past and present” Alexander Mikheev said. “The synergies that Russian helicopter firms have achieved by working together in 2013 form a solid platform for future growth as we reach new heights in our research, development and production.”

Russian Helicopters is a leading global designer and manufacturer of helicopters, producing some of the world's most popular and iconic commercial and military models. In 2013 the Company made a significant contribution to Russian industrial production as a standard-bearer for the country's aviation industries. Since being established in 2007, Russian Helicopters has almost tripled annual deliveries to 290 helicopters (2012).

Russian Helicopters has had another strong year in 2013, with deliveries set to reach about 300 helicopters of various classes and designations. The company reported EBITDA for the first half of the year of RUB 11.8 billion, up 29.3% year-on-year, and a firm order book of 870 helicopters with a total list value of about RUB 384 billion. As a result Russian Helicopters has increased its share of the global helicopter market to more than 14% in value terms.

The company presented some of its latest models to the global market during 2013, including the first prototypes of the multirole commercial Mi-171A2 and Ka-62. A prototype of the new transport and passenger helicopter Mi-38 fitted with Russian engines was also unveiled.

The Company of the Year awards highlight the achievements of fast-growing, dynamic Russian companies. The jury includes sector experts, public figures, high-profile politicians and business people. Russian Helicopters' success is recognition of the company's success in delivering on a strategy focused creating a competitive, modern and dynamic Russian helicopter industry.