Although the Mil Mi-2 'Hoplite' was developed by the Soviet Mil design bureau, it was actually produced entirely by Poland's PZL factory at Swidnik which turned up an astonishing total of over 7,000 units making it one of the most widely produced helicopters by any Eastern bloc nation. The Mi-2 is, in essence, a general-purpose light helicopter, perhaps the closest in size and function to the famous US Huey. It has a conventional fuselage configuration with a three-blade (later four) rotor, non-retractable tricycle landing gear, twin turboshaft engines, and an air-conditioned cargo hold which can carry up to eight passengers or four litters. Among its many roles include casevac, ambulance, search and rescue (SAR) and even a close support gunship with rockets and anti-tank missiles. It has been exported to numerous countries including most Warsaw Pact and Soviet client states as well as Germany, Mexico and Myanmar.

First flown on September 1961, the Mi-2T was intended as a replacement for the Mi-1 and quickly became the standard light utility helicopter of the USSR and its allies. An improved version designated Mi-2B included an revised electrical system and navigational aids while the Mi-2RM was developed for naval support. Attack versions include the Mi-2URM armed reconnaissance platform, the Mi-2US for close support (including a 23-mm cannon and numerous other guns), and finally the Mi-2URP anti-tank variant with the ability to carry AT-3 missiles and even SA-7 SAMs. Many Mi-2s were also used for civilian duties.