The An-2DTS project with the new VK-1600S turboprop engine with up to 1450 hp raised questions from aviation blogger Skyexpert. He doubted whether such an aircraft would find real demand on local airlines given the high cost of development and production.
This refers to the all-composite TVS-2DTS from SibNIA, created in the An-2 dimension. The project previously stalled due to problems with the technological and component base, but the VK-1600S is now being considered among the power plants for this platform as well. ODK states the engine's power range is approximately from 1100 to 1450 hp.
Skyexpert pointed out that projects for lighter power plants already exist nearby. In particular, the LMS-901 "Baikal" is designed for the VK-800SM with about 800 hp, and less powerful options exist for small aircraft. Therefore, the blogger considers the creation of a separate engine with significantly more power specifically for an An-2 class aircraft to be debatable.
A separate question, according to Skyexpert, is related to the market. The TVS-2MS, created on the basis of the An-2, is produced in small series, and demand remains limited. Against this background, the appearance of another aircraft of a similar class could lead to competition between several projects for the same small market.
The blogger also estimated the possible economics of the program. According to his assumption, the development of the VK-1600S could require about 300 million rubles, and the cost of the finished aircraft could approach 500 million rubles. With a capacity of about nine passengers, this price, Skyexpert believes, looks poorly compatible with the tasks of local air lines.
As a more suitable direction, the aviation blogger named a simple aircraft for 9–12 passengers with piston engines, the ability to operate from small airfields, and a minimal set of equipment. According to his estimate, the cost of such a machine should remain around 90–120 million rubles for transportation to have at least economic prospects.