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The Mil Mi-2 (NATO code name 'Hoplite') is a light twin-turbine utility helicopter. Its design is similar to the Mi-1, although the piston engine is replaced by two turbine engines placed on the roof. This created much more cabin space. Similar to the introduction of the Mi-4, the Mi-2 design is also believed to have been a reaction to a new American product, the Bell 204A 'Huey', which very successfully exploited the idea of using a turbine engine and placing it on the roof of an aircraft. The Mi-2’s turbine engines produced about 40% more power for half the weight of the Mi-1’s piston engine. As a result, the performance of the Mi-2 was a dramatic improvement. Combined with the increased cabin room, the machine could carry up to eight passengers. The Mi-2 was produced exclusively in Poland by PZL Swidznik. In good Mil tradition, more than 5000 units were built.
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