The Mi-17 helicopter was developed at the Mil Design Bureau and is based on the Mi-8 helicopter. While the Russian armed forces called it the Mi-8MT, the designation Mi-17 is meant for export models. The Mi-17 can be recognized because it has the tail rotor on the right side, instead of the left side as seen on the Mi-8. The Mi-17 added a number of improvements to its predecessor, including a vibration damper to increase comfort for crew and passengers. Additionally, the crew is protected by armor plating. Due to an engine load sharing system, the Mi-17 is capable of single-engine flight in the event of a power failure by one engine. If one engine should fail, the output of the other is automatically increased to continue flight. This transport version of the MI-17 helicopter is intended to carry cargoes in the cargo compartment or up to 24 fully equipped soldiers.