Ansat Helicopter Completes First Flight with Russian VK-650V Engine

Russia’s Ansat light multipurpose helicopter, powered for the first time by the domestically developed VK-650V turboshaft engine, has completed its maiden flight at the Kazan Helicopter Plant.

The six-minute test on September 2 involved hovering, a short climb, and stability checks. Russian Helicopters, the company that manufactures the Ansat, said the crew evaluated the aircraft’s controllability, onboard systems, and engine response, both with autopilot engaged and disengaged.

The flight comes after Ansat production was suspended when deliveries of Canadian PW207K engines stopped due to sanctions. Russian engineers reconfigured the fuselage, introduced more composite materials, redesigned the cockpit canopy frame in carbon fiber, and upgraded fuel, oil, and control systems to integrate the VK-650V.

Russian Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov, said, "The flight of a helicopter with a domestic engine is another step towards strengthening the technological sovereignty of Russian aviation. The main task now is to pass all certification tests and start serial deliveries."

"The creation of an import-substituting version of the Ansat was a priority task. Along with new powerplants, the helicopter received modernized onboard systems, making it suitable for both domestic and international operators,” Rostec Executive Director Oleg Yevtushenko added.

The VK-650V, designed by UEC-Klimov for helicopters up to 4 tons, produces 545 hp at takeoff and up to 630 hp in emergency mode. It received its type certificate in February 2025. The same engine is also being tested on the Mi-34M1 and will power future Ka-226 helicopters.

Russian Helicopters said that the updated Ansat is based on the Ansat-M, certified in 2022, and can fly up to 800 km with an auxiliary tank. The helicopter is positioned for both domestic use and export markets, including India, where Ansat and Ka-226 models are in demand.

Certification flights will continue in 2025 before serial deliveries begin.