The aircraft is equipped with a domestically produced VK-650V engine, modernized avionics and control system, as well as an updated onboard cable network and other Russian-made components

Photo: Russian Helicopters

Russian Helicopters has started flight tests of the import-substituted Ka-226Т with a new domestically-built VK-650V engine made by United Engine Corporation (both companies are included in Rostec State Corporation). The light multi-role rotorcraft carried out taxiing and hovering operations with aerial maneuvers above the helipad.

Mil and Kamov National Helicopter Center Design Bureau performed import substitution work on the helicopter without substantial fuselage changes. Besides the new engine, the Ka-226T is fitted with upgraded avionics, control system, retrofitted onboard cable network and other components that are made in Russia.

“Rostec State Corporation is consistently implementing the import substitution program in the aviation industry. The next step is creation of a fully domestically-built version of the Ka-226T. The helicopter is now equipped with the Russian “heart” — the modern VK-650V engine. During the flight, which lasted for 20 minutes, the power unit worked properly, showing reliable interfacing with all helicopter systems. Its performance will improve flight and operational capabilities of the helicopter. We expect that the upgraded helicopter will be highly demanded in Russia and abroad,” said Vladimir Artyakov, First Deputy General Director of Rostec.

The Ka-226T is able to perform a wide range of tasks: from cargo and passenger carriage and patrolling to search-and-rescue and medical evacuation operations. Modular design allows the helicopter to be transformed into various configurations just in 45 minutes.

The helicopter has coaxial rotor configuration which ensures good control at extreme altitudes in rarefied air, resistance to strong crosswind and high rate-of-climb. The helicopter can be used on small helipads, in particular, on small craft, has unparalleled maneuvering performance during flights in urban conditions and near high-rise buildings, and can be operated in a wide range of climatic conditions.

The VK-650V is the first domestically-built engine for light helicopters with a take-off weight up to 4 tons, which received a type certificate at the end of 2024. It features increased takeoff power and improved specific performance, with contingency power equal to 750 hp. Key benefits of the VK-650V include modular design and FADEC type digital control system.