Joint venture between Russia and Kazakhstan – YAK ALACON (Alliance of aircraft designers) is going to start production of the first Yak-58 prototype this summer, Interfax-AVN reports with reference to Alexander Toporov. 

“This summer we are going to resume development of the upgraded version of Yak-58 aircraft,” A.Toporov said. He believes that “financing for the project will be provided in the coming months”. “The Yak-58 project will be financed via some large international bank as well as one private bank,” Toporov explained.

According to him, the upgrade was offered by Yakovlev engineering center (part of Irkut Corporation). In particular, Yak-58 will be fitted with a new engine, state-of-the-art avionics, and its aerodynamics will be improved. More powerful engine allows improving the aircraft’s performance in terms of range (2200 km), the source said. He added that the “changes were made in design, systems, components and equipment” of the upgraded Yak-58.

The aircraft’s certification will take about year and a half, Toporov added. “The type certificate for the upgraded Yak-58 may be issued in late 2016 or early 2017. Two Yak-58 flying prototypes will participate in the flight testing; it will take around seven months to manufacture these two aircraft. It is expected that around 100 flights will be performed in the course of the certification process,” Toporov explained.

According to him, “development of Yak-58 is in line with the state policy and programs implemented by the President of Kazakhstan”. “Yak-58 is a part of the country’s development program, but we are not asking for state financing; it is our principled position,” Toporov noted.

Light multi-role Yak-58 aircraft features a twin-boom configuration, П-formed tail and pusher propeller. The vehicle has a full-metal fuselage made of aluminum alloys. Initially the turboprop was designed taking into account such factors as comfort, ergonomics and safety.

The range of Yak-58 powered by RED A03 V12 engine is 2200 km, cruise speed - 285 km/h, maximum takeoff weight - 2115 kg, maximum payload – 550 kg.

YAK ALACON was established in 2003 as a joint venture between Russia and Kazakhstan with the participation of Yakovlev design bureau. The primary objective of the company is development of the aviation market and promotion of Yak aircraft at Asian market. One of the major projects of YAK ALACON is certification and start of mass production of light multi-role Yak-58 aircraft seating 6 passengers. YAK ALACON is also taking part in the program for development of new Yak-152 (Kadet) trainer aircraft, which should replace the legendary Yak-52, which takes part in many international airshows.

The company is also developing SUNKAR family of UAVs in cooperation with Irkut Corporation.