In Russian helicopter engineering, a set of measures is being implemented aimed at import substitution and expanding the operational characteristics of domestic equipment. Modernising the “Ansat” helicopter is one of the key projects in this direction. Creating the “Ansat-M” modification is considered a priority task aimed at ensuring independence from foreign suppliers and creating a competitive model aimed at the domestic and global markets in the next 25-30 years.
The implementation of the Ansat modernisation programme began in 2017. It is being carried out within the framework of state programmes “Development of the Aviation Industry” and “Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation”. Within the framework of these programmes, a number of works were carried out, including increasing the capacity of the fuel tanks, which required changes to be made to the fuselage and avionics (Airborne Radio-Electronic Equipment). Approval of the Major Change for the installation of an additional fuel tank in the passenger cabin was obtained, as well as Approval of the Major Change “Modernisation of the Ansat Helicopter Avionics”. The installation of empennage made of polymer composite material has been approved. Bench tests of the main and tail rotors were carried out under artificial icing conditions, including tests of blades with improved aerodynamic configuration.
In 2024, bench tests were carried out under artificial icing conditions of the air intake, integrated with the domestic VK-650V engine. The tests were carried out in a longitudinal configuration, simulating the cruising flight mode. At the current stage, the task is to complete these tests in the helicopter hovering mode.
Due to the cessation of deliveries of foreign-made components, it became necessary to replace them with domestic counterparts. The following changes are being made to the standard design of the Ansat-M helicopter: installation of the VK-650V engine, the domestic SZG 27-A engine starting and DC generating system, a control system with rigid rods and the KBO-ANS airborne equipment set, including autopilot and equipment to support Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) flights. In addition, the pilot seats are being replaced. These changes necessitate modification of the fuselage, tail boom, hydraulic and oil systems, cooling system, ventilation and heating, as well as the power plant cowlings.
Simultaneously with solving import substitution tasks, the operational capabilities of the helicopter are being expanded. An increase in the maximum take-off weight is planned, as well as the installation of an ice protection system and an increase in the service life indicators of the main structural elements.
To implement these tasks, the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation has announced a tender for research and development (R&D) work under the code name “Ansat-4”, the purpose of which is to modernise the helicopter taking into account the completion of import substitution and expansion of the machine’s operational characteristics. The starting price of the contract, which will be signed with the contractor, is ₽3,954,101,000 (approximately $43 million USD).
In the tender documents on the government procurement website, the following tasks are set for the contractor: replacement of imported components with domestic equivalents, certification of an increase in the maximum take-off weight to 3800 kg, completion of bench tests of structural elements to ensure the installation of an ice protection system, as well as an increase in service life indicators.
It is planned to complete all work by 15th December 2027. The R&D work includes the manufacture of prototypes of structural elements, the development of testing programmes and methods, preliminary and certification testing, safety analysis and qualification work.
The entire R&D package is divided into three phases:
- Carrying out a set of works on import substitution on the Ansat-M helicopter – up to 15th December 2025.
- Carrying out a set of works to expand its operational properties – up to 15th December 2026.
- Completing a set of works to expand the operational properties of the Ansat-M helicopter in an import-substituted form – up to 15th December 2027.
The results of the R&D will be sets of design documentation, manufacturing acts, test reports, testing programmes and methods, reports on test results and technical acts.
As a result of the work, a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of not less than TRL=8 should be achieved in accordance with the requirements of GOST R 58048 – 2017 “Technology Transfer. Methodological guidelines for assessing the level of technology maturity”. The compliance of the modified standard design of the Ansat-M helicopter and its operational documentation with the requirements of the Certification Basis SB ANSAT.29-2013 should also be determined and confirmed.
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