SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant development for bilateral defence cooperation, Russian officials have confirmed to idrw.org that they have re-offered the Ka-226T helicopter to India, this time equipped with the indigenous VK-650V engine instead of the previously intended French Turbomeca Arrius 2G1. This move aims to overcome previous hurdles related to the localization of production and engine supply issues.
The VK-650V is Russia’s first helicopter engine in the 650-750 horsepower range, tailored for helicopters with a takeoff weight of up to 4 tons. Its introduction is a strategic response to replace foreign engines in both the Ansat and Ka-226T helicopters, enhancing the autonomy and versatility of these aircraft.
Known for its lightweight design, the VK-650V will power the Ka-226T, making it suitable for a range of tasks from transport to medical evacuation and training, matching or surpassing the capabilities provided by the French engine.
The initial agreement between India and Russia was signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Russia on December 24, 2015. This deal aimed at jointly manufacturing 200 Ka-226T helicopters at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India.
Under the original contract, the first 40 helicopters were to be built in Russia by JSC Kumertau Aviation Production Company and then assembled in India. The rest, up to 160 helicopters, would be fully manufactured and assembled in Tumkur, Karnataka, with an emphasis on increasing local production components. Earlier plans suggested that 60 would be made in Russia and 140 in India, showcasing a significant shift towards indigenous manufacturing.
idrw.org has been told that Rostec plans to showcase mode of the Ka-226T at the Aero India 2025.
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