The Mil Mi-8 is a family of medium twin-turbine helicopters, originally designed by the Soviet Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI) in the 1960s and introduced into the Soviet Air Force in 1968. As of 2024, Russian production of the aircraft model continues. In addition to its most common role as a transport helicopter, the Mi-8 is used as an airborne command post, armed gunship, and reconnaissance platform.