Russian engine designer Klimov has revealed its first all-new helicopter turboshaft since the end of the Soviet era and said the powerplant will be aimed partly at re-engining helicopters powered by the ubiquitous Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6.
Producing from 600 to 1,000 shp, the VK-800 is currently undergoing rig testing. “We’ve completed prototype testing and confirmed the performance and are ready to go to the market,” said Klimov CEO Alexander Vatagin. Certification is set for 2009.

The Klimov CEO said potential Western re-engining applications include the AgustaWestland AW109, Sikorsky S-76D and Bell 417, while Russian programs include the Kazan Ansat civil utility helicopter. “It’s time for a new-generation engine to replace the PT6,” said Vatagin. Research and development for the program has been funded half by the Russian government and half by Klimov.

The VK-800 is based around a “unique” high-performance, centrifugal, single-stage, high-pressure compressor capable of a 10:1 pressure ratio, said Vatagin. “No other engine in this class can achieve that,” he added. Other features include an uncooled, high-pressure turbine, all-new low-emissions combustor and a full-authority digital engine control (FADEC) system.

Klimov estimates demand for engines in the VK-800 class will exceed 2,500 engines through 2016. It adds that, with a price of $280,000, the new turboshaft “will be the best seller in its category.”