New powerplant for the Mi-26T2

The Ukrainian engine maker Ivchenko-Progress is showcasing the D-136-2 turboshaft engine at HeluRussia 2012. The powerplant is designed to power the upgraded Mil Mi-26T2 heavy-lift helicopter, which is currently undergoing flight tests with standard D-136 engines. From the certification standpoint, the -2 represents a heavily upgraded version of the D-136 baseline, however it is in fact an all-new design. Its gas generator is common to the D-436 family, and the low-pressure compressor has 100% commonality with that of the D-136. In addition, the D-136-2 is equipped with a completely new FADEC system.

The maximum take-off power remains at the baseline level of 11,400 hp but the new engine boasts improved hot-and-high performance, allowing for operations in outside temperatures of up to +40 degrees Celsius.

The manufacturer says no significant amounts of additional certification work will be required on the D-136-2. Motor Sich company, a part of Ivchenko-Progress corporation, will shortly put the design into series production.

Apart from the new powerplant, the Mi-26T2 is getting an advanced avionics package; this will reduce the crew headcount from five to three, enable operations in any part of the world, and support IFR flights in line with international regulations.