One of the most ambitious domestic developments in aviation powerplants is Russia’s ongoing certification procedure for the prospective helicopter engine VK-1600V. The United Engine Corporation (UEC) announced on February 26, 2026, that the automatic regulation and control unit BARK-15V, which is a component of the engine control system, has effectively verified its compliance with the established requirements as part of the VK-1600V certification program.
This success is a significant milestone in the process of obtaining the complete type certificate for the VK-1600V, which brings the engine closer to operational deployment in next-generation helicopters and serial production.
The Role and Features of the BARK-15V Automatic Control Unit
One of the critical procedures in the comprehensive assessment of the VK-1600V engine was the certification of the BARK-15V. The automatic regulation and control unit is a dual-channel electronic regulator that includes an architecture that is intended to offer comprehensive engine control, diagnostics, and fault detection.
The BARK-15V is scalable, highly reliable, and compact. It is a component of a FADEC-type (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) system that is responsible for the management of critical engine parameters, including the maintenance of optimal operating modes under varying loads and the management of fuel supply and airflow. The dual-channel configuration is vital for aviation engines, as it maintains redundancy and improves fault tolerance, which are important for operational stability and safety.
The Russian Aviation Register’s specialists performed the audit of the unit at the developer’s facility. The inspection involved the evaluation of the processes for developing airborne software, a review of design documentation, and the verification of compliance with the approved standards outlined in KT-178C and KT-254 regulations by specialists. These standards establish rigorous standards for the development assurance of electronic systems in aviation equipment and onboard software.
The BARK-15V’s successful certification reinforces the confidence that the engine’s control system complies with modern safety and reliability standards, a critical prerequisite for the subsequent phases of full engine certification.
Technical Characteristics and Capabilities of the VK-1600V
A turboshaft engine in the 1,300 to 1,800 horsepower range, the VK-1600V is intended for medium-lift helicopters. It is being developed by UEC-Klimov as part of Russia’s import substitution program, which is designed to replace foreign powerplants in domestic rotorcraft.
The engine was designed using advanced digital technologies. It was the first domestic turboshaft engine to be developed wholly in a full 3D digital environment without traditional paper drawings. This method simplified design processes, enhanced the quality control of structural components, and improved the accuracy of documentation.
The VK-1600V features the following key parameters:
It generates 1,400 horsepower in launch mode, which is the primary operating condition during lift-off.
During critical maneuvers or heavy load operations, it can provide additional propulsion by delivering up to 1,750 horsepower in emergency power mode for up to two and a half minutes.
In comparison to its foreign counterparts, it provides improved fuel efficiency and decreased specific fuel consumption.
Modern materials and digital engine control systems are implemented to optimize its life-cycle cost.
These characteristics render the VK-1600V an appealing option for Russian helicopters and, potentially, for export markets in the medium transport, passenger, and special-mission segments.
Why the VK-1600V Is Important for Russian Helicopter Manufacturing
Before to the VK-1600V’s development, Russia encountered a shortage of domestically manufactured engines in the 1,500–1,800 horsepower range. Historically, engines in this category were imported from other countries. For instance, the Ka-62 helicopter was originally powered by the French Ardiden 3G engine, which was manufactured by Safran Helicopter Engines.
Nevertheless, import substitution has become a strategic necessity in light of the current geopolitical and sanctions landscape. The development of a domestic powerplant in this category has a substantial impact on Russia’s production independence and reduces its dependence on foreign suppliers.
Furthermore, the VK-1600V extends the capabilities of the Russian aerospace industry by allowing designers and manufacturers to create new helicopter modifications that adhere to contemporary standards of operational efficacy, reliability, and efficiency.
Application: The Ka-62 Helicopter and Future Prospects
The Ka-62 is a modern Russian medium-utility helicopter that was developed by Kamov under the Russian Helicopters brand. It is specifically designed for civilian purposes, including offshore oil and gas transport, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and corporate travel. It is distinguished from Kamov’s conventional coaxial-rotor designs by its conventional single primary rotor and a ducted fenestron tail rotor, which improves its noise performance and safety. The Ka-62, which is designed to modernize Russia’s medium helicopter segment, is equipped with a modern glass cockpit and composite materials to improve efficiency and reduce pilot workload. It has a maximum takeoff weight of approximately 6.5 tonnes, a capacity of 12–15 passengers, a cruise speed of approximately 290 km/h, and a range of approximately 700–770 km.
The Ka-62 was initially designed with foreign engines; however, the import-substituted version is scheduled to make its first flight in 2026. This version will be equipped with VK-1600V engines and the domestically developed ATV-62 transmission.
It is anticipated that the work to develop a helicopter that is entirely Russian, with onboard systems that are manufactured domestically, will be finalized by 2027. The import-substituted prototype is scheduled to undergo preliminary ground and flight tests by the conclusion of that year.
The successful integration of the VK-1600V into the Ka-62 platform will enable Russia to manufacture helicopters without the use of foreign power units, thereby bolstering its technological sovereignty in the rotorcraft manufacturing industry.
Present Status of Development and Certification Prospects
The VK-1600V is currently undergoing scheduled bench testing as of early 2026, and type certification is expected for the second quarter of 2026 in accordance with official industry plans.
Acceptance testing is currently underway for numerous prototype engines that have already been manufactured. Stable gas-dynamic performance and reliable launch characteristics have been verified through bench trials.
Concurrently, the engine control software is being further refined to ensure seamless operation between the FADEC system and the helicopter’s onboard systems. Integration work is ongoing. By successfully confirming compliance with the BARK-15V, the project is brought closer to mass production and operational service, thereby reducing the technical hazards associated with large-scale integration.
In conclusion,
A critical milestone in the development of the VK-1600V helicopter engine is the certification of critical control system components, including the BARK-15V. Not only does this powerplant address a critical void in the domestic turboshaft engine segment, but it also fortifies the technological independence of the Russian aerospace Industry.
Its integration into the Ka-62 helicopter will represent a significant advancement in the development of entirely domestic rotorcraft that are capable of executing a diverse array of missions, including civilian transport and specialized operations in challenging environments.
The VK-1600V serves as an illustration of how the aviation sector can improve its technological security and competitiveness by implementing modern development methodologies, domestic component production, and digital engineering technologies.