MOSCOW, April 13 (AVN) - The decision on the transfer of the AL-41F fifth generation aviation engines to the Rybinsk Motors JS is a mistake, Vladimir Suralyov, deputy director general of the local Salyut company told the Military News Agency on Thursday.
Rybinsk Motors will face with great difficulties while starting the production of AL-41F fitted with draught vector control system, Suralyov said. Currently the plant produces D-30 engines, which are of the third generation. The transfer of production by two generations is connected with unjustified expenses and time wasting.
According to Suralyov, given the large market potential of the engines (about 1,500 units), the company is ready to co-operate with Rybinsk Motors, or to take upon the production single-handedly.
Experts say the starting production costs of AL-41F would make about USD300m. The customers will be able to purchase the engine with USD3-4m.