Rostec to Assemble a Hybrid Propulsion System Demonstrator by the End of 2022

Rostec to Assemble a Hybrid Propulsion System Demonstrator by the End of 2022

Photo: Victor Molodtsov

The hybrid propulsion system (HPS) combining the functionality of a gas-turbine engine and motor is expected to be used in light aircraft, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). UEC-Klimov, as part of the United Engine Corporation, is the primary developer. An HPS prototype was first presented at HeliRussia-2022.

JSC UEC-Klimov has involved partner companies to start the manufacture of batteries, electrical machines, gas turbine drive, power control and HPS control units.

“The design engineering stage for a 150 kW HPS demonstrator has been completed, a cooperation group has been formed and the partners has started to manufacture the system components and parts. The system demonstrator is to be assembled and tested by the end of the year,” said Vsevolod Eliseev, General Designer, JSC UEC-Klimov. Upon completion of the HPS component tests in the second half of 2022, the assembly, system interaction testing and demo system testing are planned in order to validate the system performance and adopted engineering solutions. Taking into account the test results, a 500kW HPS demonstrator on the basis of VK-650V engine will be produced.

Potential applications of HPS will include light multipurpose helicopters, UAVs with a take-off weight from 2 tons to 8 tons, regional planes, air taxi, business aviation, vertical take-off and landing aircraft.