The Chaplygin Siberian Aeronautical Research Institute (SibNIA) has initiated testing of the new VK-800 aircraft engine. This engine is designed for use in training aircraft like the UTS-800, as well as the multi-purpose `Baikal` aircraft.
According to the institute, initial taxiing tests and short flights have been successfully performed using a Yak-40 flying laboratory fitted with a prototype of the new Russian VK-800 turboprop engine. This specific engine variant is intended for the LMS-901 `Baikal` aircraft.
These tests are being carried out to support the engine`s certification trials integrated into the flying laboratory. The next phase will involve a series of test flights to confirm safety and prepare the engine for mass production.
In addition to the `Baikal` and UTS-800, the new powerplant is also slated for the Russian-Belarusian regional aircraft LMS-192 `Osvey`. Furthermore, there are plans to install the VK-800 on L-410 aircraft as part of re-engining efforts. The engine`s power output ranges from 807 to 877 horsepower.
In February, a representative from the Ural Works of Civil Aviation announced that Russia`s Ministry of Defense is expected to receive several more UTS-800 training aircraft in 2025.
