VLADIMIR KARNOZOV / MOSCOW
Design drawings delivered to production factory as first flight set for late 2003
Sukhoi is in the final stage of negotiations with the Russian defence ministry over an order for 300Su-49 trainers following its selection earlier this year to meet the Russian air force's piston-powered basic trainer requirement.
Sukhoi's senior manager for lightweight aircraft programmes Boris Rakitin says the Su-49 drawings have been handed over to Novosibirsk Aviation Production Association (NAPO) factory where it will be produced. The first development prototype will fly by the end of 2003, with production aircraft deliveries to follow in 2004, he says.
The single-engined Su-49 emerged the winner in competition with the Yakovlev Yak-152 (Flight International, 23-29 April). The two aircraft were designed to air force specification as an affordable piston-powered aircraft for screening, initial training and maintaining the flying skills of military pilots.
The Su-49 is a two-seat low-wing aircraft based on the design of the Su-29 sport aircraft, but features aluminium alloys rather than composites and is powered by the new Voronezh M-9F engine.
In accordance with the tender terms, Sukhoi is developing theSu-49 from its own funds, with the air force to pay for aircraft on delivery. Sukhoi will also produce an export version.
The Russian defence ministry has also requested 1,000 Su-49s for the ROSTO air force support organisation, for use as an initial trainer for young pilots wishing to join the air force flying schools.
Source: Flight International
