PJSC ODK-Kuznetsov, located in Samara, stands as one of Russia’s leading centers for aircraft engine manufacturing. The facility possesses extensive expertise and capabilities in aviation, space, and energy sectors. On September 5, 2025, President Vladimir Putin toured the Kuznetsov plant, underscoring Russia’s current priorities and commitment to advancing gas turbine and rocket engine technologies.
During the visit, the facility showcased several state-of-the-art Russian engines, including the PD-14 and PD-8 turbofan engines, and the VK-650V turboshaft engine. President Putin was also presented with the upgraded NK-32 engine for the Tu-160M strategic bomber, as well as the GTD-110M for fuel and energy complexes and gas compressor stations.
As a demonstration of emerging technologies, a full-scale composite fan blade model for the PD-35 high-thrust turbofan engine was displayed. The PD-35 remains under development, with certification and serial production targeted for 2027.
The PD-14 engine, a fifth-generation, twin-spool turbofan, is produced at ODK-Perm Motors and designed for the MC-21-310 narrow-body passenger aircraft. To date, Yakovlev PJSC has manufactured and delivered eight PD-14 engines for prototype aircraft, currently undergoing certification testing.
The PD-8, derived from the PD-14 gas generator, delivers approximately 17,600 lbf (8,000 kgf) of thrust and is intended for regional Superjet 100 aircraft, replacing the foreign-made SaM146. The PD-8 is also considered as a platform for other aircraft types. President Putin was briefed on plans to expand PD-8 applications, including amphibious aircraft such as the Be-200, replacing the Ukrainian D-436TP engine.
The VK-650V, a 650 hp turboshaft engine, is designed for light helicopters including the Ansat, Mi-34M1, and Ka-226T. Hybrid powerplants based on the VK-650V are under development, with a demonstrator presented during the visit.
ODK CEO Alexander Grachev reported the completion of import substitution for the Ansat helicopter and preparations for the first flight of the Ka-226T equipped with a Russian engine, scheduled soon. “The VK-650V is a fully domestic powerplant, tested and ready for operation on Russian helicopters. We expect to fly the Mi-34 and Ka-226 this month,” Grachev stated.
The NK-32-2, a turbojet engine with afterburner, remains the core powerplant for the Tu-160 strategic bomber. The meeting addressed NK-32 modernization and the potential application of its technologies in new gas turbine systems for energy and transport sectors.
Following the engine review, President Putin emphasized Russia’s position among the world’s top five aircraft engine manufacturers. Expansion of ODK’s production capacity has increased annual engine deliveries by over 50% in four years, from 791 to 1,227 units. The President stressed the importance of timely certification for the SJ-100 aircraft and Ansat helicopter, and called for accelerated integration of the PD-8 across additional platforms.
President Putin also highlighted the new PD-26 engine, under development at ODK-Aviadvigatel in Perm, urging rapid completion and transition to serial production. “This project will modernize not only military transport aviation but also enable the development of a new generation wide-body civil airliner. We see strong interest from potential partners and look forward to progress on this engine,” Putin stated.
Overall, the visit and meeting in Samara mark a significant milestone for United Engine Corporation and its partners. Russia now fields indigenous gas turbine powerplants for passenger aircraft and helicopters. President Putin called for broader adoption of new models, enhancement of durability and environmental performance, and continued import substitution in engine manufacturing. The industry’s trajectory is set toward technological sovereignty, sustainable growth, and integration of advanced solutions in both civil and military aviation.
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