The Kamov Ka-126 (NATO reporting name Hoodlum) is a Soviet light utility helicopter with co-axial rotors.

In October 1985 the signing of the collaboration protocol for the manufacturing of the single engine turbine powered KA 126 helicopter.

In 1986 Industria Aeronautică Română (IAR) started the helicopter manufacturing preparation.

Early mockups had two small turboshafts above cabin; single turboshaft adopted subsequently; ground test vehicle completed early 1986; On 22 December 1988 was maiden flight of the IAR Built Ka 126 with TV100 engine produced by Turbomecanica București and VR126 main gear built by I. Avioane Bacău today Aerostar.

The fuselage of the Ka-126 consists of a fixed, bubble-shaped cockpit containing the pilot and co-pilot, plus a removable, variable box available in medevac, passenger-carrying and cropduster versions.