Specialists from the Tomsk Scientific Center of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, together with the Scientific and Production Center of Unmanned Aviation Systems (SPC UAS) of the region, have completed the development and successfully tested a new compact internal combustion engine designed for unmanned aerial vehicles. The production of the power unit is planned to be localized in the Tomsk region.
In a year, engineers managed to create a rotary engine with a volume of 300 cm³, developing a power of 26 kW (35–36 hp). The unit is focused on use in unmanned and light manned air platforms weighing up to 300 kg. The first prototype was assembled and launched at the end of 2025, demonstrating stable operation and compliance with the stated characteristics.
The new development is designed to eliminate the acute shortage of engines with a power of 20–30 kW in the Russian market, where previously such solutions were either unavailable or import-dependent.
Among the key advantages of the engine are compact dimensions, low weight, high power-to-weight ratio, minimal vibration level, and the ability to operate on standard automotive gasoline, which greatly simplifies logistics and maintenance in the field.