Russia’s United Engine Corporation (UEC), part of the state-owned Rostec group, has successfully conducted heavy-rain testing of the PD-8 jet engine developed for the new SJ-100 passenger aircraft.
The engineering trials involved water-injection tests simulating rainfall at the engine inlet. The PD-8 was operated across multiple modes, ranging from idle to takeoff, and subjected to sharp accelerations and decelerations. Officials confirmed that the engine performed flawlessly under extreme conditions, meeting all declared specifications.
UEC emphasized that rain ingestion testing is a critical step in aviation certification, ensuring operational reliability and safety. The successful completion of the trials confirms the PD-8’s readiness for further certification stages.
The PD-8 engine is designed to replace foreign-made powerplants on the Superjet, strengthening Russia’s self-reliance in aviation technology. The achievement underscores the country’s commitment to advancing indigenous aerospace capabilities despite global supply chain challenges.
Officials concluded that the successful testing marks a significant milestone in Russia’s aviation industry, paving the way for the SJ-100’s deployment with domestically produced engines.
