RuAviation

Engineers at UEC-Aviadvigatel (Perm, Russia) are developing a new 26-tonne-thrust-class engine for next-generation transport aircraft, according to First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, as reported by TASS.

The PD-26 is being designed as a versatile powerplant for both military and civil aviation, including future high-capacity transport and passenger wide-body aircraft. The engine leverages the gas generator from the PD-35, a high-thrust turbofan currently under development with a thrust rating of approximately 35 metric tons (about 77,000 lbf). This approach enables engineers to utilize key technologies developed for the PD-35—the first Russian high-bypass turbofan in its class—under the federal program for advanced aero engine development.

According to Manturov, the PD-26 is intended for aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of around 100 metric tons (220,000 lbs).

“More than 20 new technologies have been implemented during the PD-35 program, resulting in technical solutions that meet the requirements of both military transport and commercial aviation. For the Ministry of Defense’s future 100-ton-class airlifter, a 26-tonne-thrust engine is optimal. The PD-26 can also power next-generation wide-body passenger aircraft,” Manturov stated.

He did not specify the engine’s final parameters or the expected timeline for completion.

Beyond aviation, the PD-26 may also be adapted for ground-based power generation systems. “Developing an engine for a single aircraft type would be prohibitively expensive and economically inefficient,” Manturov explained.

The PD-35 features composite fan blades, advanced heat-resistant alloys, and upgraded control systems. The engine is expected to deliver fuel efficiency and service life comparable to leading international models. In the long term, it may serve as the foundation for a family of engines with varying thrust ratings.