RuAviation

Russia’s light aviation segment has faced a persistent shortage of domestic piston engines in recent years. Following the collapse of the Soviet-era supply network, serial production of low-power aviation engines effectively ceased. Development of light airplanes and small helicopters largely relied on imported powerplants, while attempts to establish a domestic engine line remained sporadic and failed to deliver a serial product.

The market has centered on engines from Rotax, Lycoming, Continental, and RED Aircraft diesel units, as confirmed by the Russian Civil Aircraft Registry as well as FAA and EASA type certificate data. These engines power the majority of light aircraft, autogyros, and helicopters of foreign manufacture operating in Russia.

Domestic alternatives were attempted in the 2010s. The most notable effort, the APD‑500, based on the Aurus automobile engine (NAMI‑4123), reached the stage of an aviation demonstrator, including ground testing and limited integration into a laboratory aircraft. However, it has not yet passed certification or entered serial production.

Against this backdrop, United Engine Corporation (UDC) unveiled the new M105 piston engine at NAIS‑2026. The public demonstration signals the transition from experimental prototypes to a production-ready engine, highlighting UDC’s move toward a dedicated product line for the light aviation market.

The M105 is a turbocharged, four-stroke, four-cylinder piston engine. The base version is intended for light airplanes, while the M105V variant is designed for helicopters and autogyros. The engine can drive either a tractor or pusher propeller and can also serve as a mechanical power source for electric generators.

M105 Technical Specifications:

Rated Power – 115 hp
Displacement – 1,211 cc
Piston Stroke – 61 mm
Engine Weight – 80 kg
Total Service Life – 2,000 hours
Time Between Overhauls – 750 hours
Design Lifetime – 10 years

The M105 program is accompanied by the development of dedicated manufacturing and service infrastructure. In the Republic of Bashkortostan, with regional government support, a specialized facility is being established within a special economic zone. Production is planned as a full-cycle operation, covering final testing, warranty, and post-warranty service without reliance on external suppliers.

While the M105 does not fully meet all light aviation demands, it demonstrates a move from fragmented experimental projects to a systematic approach with a focus on serial production.