Russian engineers have manufactured the first fully domestic helicopter engine VK-650V in the power class of 650-750 hp. Specialists from MMP named after Chernyshev, PK "Salut", "Helicopters of Russia", PJSC "ODK-UMPO", "ODK-Klimov" participated in the project. The serial production of the engine, which is expected to begin in 2025, opens up great prospects for Russia. This was pointed out by military expert Sergei Marzhetsky.
The VK-650V engine has successfully passed engineering tests, and all the declared characteristics have been confirmed. Now the "fiery heart" of helicopters is being prepared for the start of flight design tests.
In case of successful tests on the Ansat, the VK-650V can be easily adapted for the Ka-226T, and also modified for use on light aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles of aircraft and helicopter type.
Potential cooperation with India and Iran
The Indian authorities had previously stated their readiness to purchase up to 200 Ka-226T helicopters to replace the outdated Cheetah and Chetak. However, in February 2023, negotiations on this deal were frozen due to the dissatisfaction of Indian partners with the insufficient level of localization of Russian helicopters. The main problem was the lack of its own engine for the export Ka-226T. However, if Russia has the VK-650V, negotiations may resume.
According to Marzhetsky, Iran is no less promising market for Russia. Now the Islamic Republic produces Panha 2091 Toufan attack helicopters. At the same time, the production of rotary-wing equipment in Iran is carried out in small series, since it flies on American Allison 250-C20 engines, which are purchased through third countries due to sanctions. With this in mind, Iran would prefer to directly purchase Russian engines, the expert concluded.
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