Pratt & Whitney is intending to offer its PW1000G geared turbofan engine to United Aircraft's proposed MS-21 twinjet.
The MS-21 concept envisages a family of narrowbody 150- to 210-seat aircraft designed to replace hundreds of ageing Tupolev Tu-154s. The scale of the programme, says P&W president David Hess, makes it attractive for potential suppliers.
Outlining the company's goals in the Russian market, Hess says: "First of all, we want to take part in the MS-21 programme."
He says the company "hopes [the PW1000G] will be selected" for the aircraft, adding: "We know that there are proposals from other engine manufacturers, but we are prepared to compete with them."
P&W owns 25% of Russian engine developer Aviadvigatel and affiliated engine manufacturer Perm Motors, which are offering the PS-14 powerplant for the twinjet.
Hess says: "Our understanding is that the MS-21 project team wants a Western alternative to domestically produced engines to facilitate aircraft sales abroad. We would like to propose it jointly with a local partner."
He suggests that a considerable amount of work - from developing engine components to assembly, testing and marketing - could be localised and says P&W has already conducted relevant research and consultations.
Source: Flight International
