Russia Unveils All-new ‘Fifth-generation’ 177C Engine for Transport Aircraft

An all-new engine, the "fifth-generation" 177C, meant for tactical transport aircraft such as the IL-76, was unveiled today on the first day of Airshow China 2024.

Russia's United Engine Corporation (UEC) called the occasion, "world premiere of the fifth-generation 177C engine, which is highly efficient and increases the flight range of operational-tactical aircraft." 

Other notable exhibits included the VK-1600V engine for medium helicopters, the TV7-117ST-01 turboprop, and the PD-35 fan blade made from polymer composites.

The Airshow China 2024 runs from November 12 to 17 and features 890 companies from 47 countries.

The latest 177C engine for tactical aircraft belongs to the fifth generation and has reduced fuel consumption in all operating modes besides increased energy consumption for powering the electronic systems of modern aircraft. The power plant also increases their flight range, UEC said in a statement today.

Thrust and endurance figures of the new engine have not been revealed as also the aircraft for which it has been developed.

Russia has upgraded the legendary Il-76 to the Il-76MD-90A aircraft, powered by the PS-90 series of engines.

UEC highlighted that the engine boosts energy consumption for electronic systems, making it more suitable for modern tactical aircraft.

UEC also presented other key products at the exhibition, including full-size models of the AL-31FN and SM-100 engines, both developed with fifth-generation technologies. These engines are designed to offer higher thrust, increased reliability, and longer service life, alongside reduced operating costs.