RuAviation

The Ansat light multipurpose helicopter, equipped with VK-650V turboshaft engines developed by UEC-Klimov (Russia), has successfully completed its maiden flight. The test was conducted at the Kazan Helicopter Plant (Kazan Helicopters), according to Russian Helicopters Holding.

Test pilots performed a hover, assessed the aircraft’s handling and engine performance, and then executed a brief climb. The flight lasted six minutes. The crew evaluated the helicopter’s stability and controllability, and verified the operation of onboard equipment and major systems.

This milestone marks the transition of another Russian aviation product to a fully domestic configuration. Previously, Ansat helicopters were powered by Canadian PW207K engines. Following the suspension of engine deliveries due to geopolitical restrictions, Kazan Helicopters halted serial production until a Russian powerplant could be integrated.

During the re-engining process, engineers also modified the fuselage, increased the use of composite materials, and improved aerodynamics. The cockpit canopy frame is now made of carbon fiber. The import-substituted Ansat features redesigned engine cowlings and firewalls, upgraded fuel and oil systems, and revised flight and engine control systems. Russian Helicopters notes that the modernized Ansat with domestic engines is intended for both domestic and export markets.

In autumn 2024, another light helicopter—the Mi-34M1—also flew with VK-650V engines. Tests are underway at the Moscow Helicopter Plant named after M.L. Mil in Tomilino. The Mi-34M1, previously powered by piston engines, now features two VK-650V turboshafts, significantly enhancing its flight performance, reliability, and operational capabilities.

ODK-Klimov continues work on import substitution of the engine for the Ansat helicopter

According to Oleg Yevtushenko, Executive Director of Rostec State Corporation, replacing the Ansat’s engines with Russian-made units was a top priority, as the engine is the heart of any helicopter. UEC-Klimov plans to continue refining the VK-650V in 2025, conduct the first flight of the Ka-226, and begin certification flights for the Mi-34M1, Ansat, and Ka-226 equipped with this powerplant.

The VK-650V engine is designed for light helicopters with a maximum takeoff weight up to 8,800 lbs (4 metric tons). The type certificate was awarded to UEC’s General Director Alexander Grachev on February 7, 2025. Development began in 2019. The engine delivers 545 hp for takeoff, 460 hp for maximum continuous operation, and 400 hp for cruise. In one-engine inoperative (OEI) emergency mode, output reaches 630 hp, while maximum continuous OEI power is 590 hp. The VK-650V features a modern digital automatic control and monitoring system.

Russian Helicopters, together with Kazan Helicopters, must now complete factory flight test programs and proceed with certification of the import-substituted Ansat. Commenting on the first flight, Russian Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov stated that the main objective is to successfully complete all certification stages, after which serial deliveries of the new Ansat can begin.