Russia’s next-generation MC-21-310 commercial jet has moved a step closer to mass production after its manufacturer, Yakovlev, received the first batch of the PD-14 engine.
Russia’s state-owned technology company Rostec did not disclose how many turbofans were delivered, however.
The PD-14 is one of a series of new engines under development in the country to replace Western engines that are under sanctions following Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine three years ago.
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The turbofan is a local alternative to the Pratt & Whitney PW1400G (GTF), which was designed for the MC-21-300.
In addition, the UEC is also testing the PD-8, which will replace the SaM-146 as the engine for the SJ-100 regional jet, and the PD-35, a large turbofan designed for the CR929 widebody, a partnership between Russia and China that has ended.
According to Rostec, the PD-14 has 16 critical technologies in new materials, coatings and design solutions such as hollow titanium blades, which are lighter.
The MC-21 is a commercial aircraft that competes with the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families and was supposed to have global suppliers with the aim of being exported.
The Western economic blockade, however, has made the jet a product aimed at Russian carriers and countries allied with Moscow.
The MC-21-310 variant can carry 163 to 211 passengers and its series production is expected by 2026 after several delays.
