In the early 2010s, the Mil Design Bureau began developing a new variant of the Mi-8AMTSH that would incorporate combat experience from Syria and other regions. The resulting aircraft, the Mi-8AMTSH-VN "Sapsan", was unveiled at the MAKS 2017 air show. Notable differences from the previous model included new engines and a composite four-blade main rotor similar to that of the Mi-28. Additionally, the transport compartment was upgraded and new electronics were installed to enable the use of Ataka and Verba missiles. The survivability and helicopter control systems were also upgraded. In 2019, the Ministry of Defence ordered ten Mi-8AMTSH-VN helicopters, all of which were to be delivered by 2022.

The Mi-8AMTSh-VN was introduced in Update 2.41 "Firebirds". This new helicopter offers significant improvements to the Mi-8 line: the new Ataka missiles enable attacks from much greater distances, particularly when combined with a thermal imager, while the upgraded protective equipment enhances battlefield awareness. However, it remains as large and heavy as the original Mi-8.