First flight of Mi-38 prototype with TV7-117V engines

Russian Helicopters has commenced flight tests of its prototype Mi-38 multirole helicopter fitted with Russian-built TV7-117V engines, the company announced on 17 December.  

The first flight of the third Mi-38 prototype took place on 29 November, following the completion of initial hover tests earlier in the month. As part of its testing plan, the Mi-38 completed a circuit of the flight-testing centre of Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant in Tomilino, Moscow. 

The Mi-38 multirole helicopter is a joint production between Russian Helicopters, and United Engine Corporation (UEC), both subsidiaries of Oboronprom, part of State Corporation Rostec. 

‘The Mi-38’s first flight is the successful result of collaboration between Russian helicopter constructors and engine-builders,’ said Russian Helicopters CEO Alexander Mikheev. 

‘Thanks to its TV7-117V engines, the Mi-38 has a significantly broader range of potential applications, which will give it an additional competitive edge,’ Mikheev added. 

Following the successful test results, a quick transition to in-house certification tests of the new aircraft to Russian AP-29 standards is anticipated. 

Certification of the Mi-38 is expected to be completed in 2015, with serial production then slated to commence at the Kazan Helicopter Plant, based at Kazan, Tatarstan. 

Serially produced Mi-38s will be fitted with the Klimov TV7-117V engines, which were purpose-built for the new platform by UEC. 

‘Construction of a test batch of the TV7-117Vs will begin shortly for certification testing, which is planned for the end of 2014,’ said UEC CEO Vladislav Masalov.

According to UEC, the new turboshaft TV7-117Vs generate thrust of 2,500-3,000 hp, and are based on the TV7-117 turboprop engine, with which they are more than 90% compatible. 

The TV7-117Vs have the capacity to provide of 2,800-3,750 hp of emergency power when necessary, and feature a new FADEC system that uses the BARK-12 or BARK-57 electronic engine control unit.

The second prototype Mi-38, fitted with Pratt & Whitney Canada Engines, completed its first flight on 24 December 2010. 

The fourth and final prototype Mi-38 is currently being assembled at the Kazan Helicopter Plant, and will be fitted with a shock-resistant fuel system by Aerazur, and enlarged window openings. 

The multirole Mi-38 can be used for cargo, passenger and VIP transport, and can also serve as a flying hospital and for offshore operations.