The control system of the new VK-1600V turboshaft engine has passed an audit by the Russian Aviation Register. The inspection confirmed the readiness of the key unit for the next stage of certification, the Aviation of Russia portal reported.
The audit concerned the BARK-15V automatic control and monitoring unit, the core of the digital FADEC system. Specialists from the Russian Aviation Register confirmed that the VK-1600V control system complies with the nationwide KT-178S standard, and the powerplant hardware complies with the KT-254 standard.
The unit has a dual-channel architecture with redundant computing paths. It controls operating modes, performs parametric monitoring, diagnostics, and fault localization.
The VK-1600V engine is intended for installation on Ka-62 helicopters, as well as special-purpose and multipurpose helicopters with a takeoff weight of 5-8 tons. To date, there are no domestic engines of this class. Certification of the powerplant is expected in the second quarter of 2026.