China had hoped to purchase from Russia the NK-32 turbojet engine from the Tu-160 "White Swan" bomber, but was refused. This was reported by the Chinese outlet NetEase.
Analysts said that the PRC needs this powerplant to equip its own new strategic combat aircraft.
Nevertheless, Russia's main position regarding the NK-32 has remained unchanged. It would rather have the aircraft remain sealed in storage and gather dust than export even a single blueprint or part.
The Chinese side reacted to this decision with understanding and recalled that the NK-32 is not just a super-powerful engine, but the foundation of the air strike forces within the nuclear deterrence "triad."
In addition, Russia understands the value of these engines and will do everything possible to protect them from copying, Chinese analysts added.
China possesses an exceptionally strong capacity for mastering and adapting technologies. Russia clearly does not want to repeat this mistake.
Engines of the NK-32 series are built at "ODK-Kuznetsov" in the Samara Region. The company has been provided with product orders through 2027, Deputy General Director Oleg Vydumlev reported.
Read more materials on the topic:
- Technologies of the Tu-160 "White Swan" were used in a new ODK engine: efficiency rose to 38%
- ODK showed tests of the RD-107A/108A rocket engine: burns 12 tons of kerosene in minutes
- Russia developed a hybrid engine of the future powered by hydrogen and methane
