In Russia, the full-scale mock-up phase of the AEROMAX V-700 helicopter-type unmanned aerial vehicle has begun. The work is being carried out by Aeromax and Aviacertification of Russia, a subordinate organization of Rosaviatsiya.
The machine will be the largest Russian helicopter-type UAV submitted for certification: its take-off weight will reach 3600 kilograms. The project has already undergone a series of technical meetings, and if the schedule is maintained, the flight prototype will begin testing in early 2027.
A key feature of the AEROMAX V-700 is the use of a fully Russian VK-650V turboshaft engine. This is the first time a civilian UAV has been submitted for certification with an already certified domestic power plant. The engine is designed for rotorcraft weighing up to four tons and already has a valid type certificate.
The mock-up stage allows engineers to refine the layout of onboard systems, check access to components for maintenance, and eliminate possible shortcomings before starting the assembly of the flight model.
After the mock-up work is completed, the team will proceed to prototype manufacturing and ground tests. If the schedule is met, the first flight of the AEROMAX V-700 could take place as early as 2027.
