Russia to display new jet engine at India air show

Moscow, Feb 3: Russian jet engine maker Salut will showcase a modernised engine for Su-family fighters at Aero India-2007 Aerospace Exhibition in Bangalore, to be held from February 7-11.

The company had spent 40 million dollar on developing the AL-31FM1 engine for Su-27, Su-30, Su-33 and other Sukhoi aircraft and successfully completed its tests last October, a spokesman for the Salut told RIA Novosti news agency.

The modernised version of the famous AL-31F engine features improved thrust characteristics, a 15 per cent increase in combat effectiveness and cycle life, and reduced maintenance costs.

The AL-31FM1 will be initially installed on Su-27SM Flanker fighters in service with the Russian Air Force, but it also has a high export potential, the spokesman said.

Salut is also planning to conduct talks with the Indian military on the prospects of equipping MiG-27K Flogger fighter bombers for the Indian Air Force with AL-31F engines.

UNI