Turbomeca (Safran) and Russian Helicopters (a subsidiary of Oboronprom, part of State Corporation Rostec) today announced that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the opening of a new Maintenance Centre.

In the frame of this agreement, Russian Helicopters will provide maintenance Level 1 and 2 activities on Turbomeca engines operated by the Russian helicopter operators. The engines covered are the Arrius 2G1 and the Ardiden 3G, respectively powering the Ka-226T and the Ka-62 helicopters.

This Maintenance Center is part of a global common support strategy aimed at providing a highest level of support to all operators flying with Turbomeca engines in accordance with the best practices and standards.

The new Arrius 2G1 engine with performance in the 700 to 800 shp class, has been tailored to perfectly fit the Ka-226T. This new variant is a derivative engine from the existing Arrius 2, which has proven its durability and reliability worldwide with more than 3000 engines already delivered. To address the requirement of public transport, the Arrius 2G1, among other specific devices, is equipped with a FADEC controlling the power delivery to the helicopter. The engine has been certified in 2011.

Designed for 6 to 8 tonnes helicopters to achieve multiple missions, Ardiden 3 engines offer, under all weather conditions, the most increased performances in the range of the 1,750 to 2,000 shp power engines. The modular design and dual channel FADEC, make the Ardiden 3 highly reliable, with the benefit of low operating costs and an exceptional low fuel consumption (more than 10% less than the others engines in the same range). A contract for over 300 engines has already been signed. Ardiden 3G certification is expected in 2014.

The Ka-226T light multi-purpose helicopter may be operated in urban conditions for high-rise construction works, patrolling, as well as for police operations. Coaxial main rotor system ensures Ka-226T great load capacity and flight height advantages. The Ka-226T is capable of reaching higher altitudes than most other helicopters in its class. Thanks to its maximum climb rate of 10 m/s, low environmental impact and small sound signature, the Ka-226T can operate in various climactic conditions and landscapes, including urban conditions and built-up areas.

Built using new technologies and materials, the new Ka-62 is a single-rotor design, with an enclosed tail rotor and an airframe and propeller blades consisting of over 50% polymeric composite materials. The helicopter will also feature a glass cockpit, a five-blade rotor, secondary hydraulics circuit and energy-efficient wheeled landing gear. The Ka-62 is designed for cargo transportation, medevac and search-and rescue operations, and can also be used in the oil and gas sector and for corporate purposes.