T625 Multi-Role Helicopter Performs its Maiden Flight
The T625 Helicopter performed its first flight (Hover) seamlessly under the control of TA test pilots with a “Experimental” purpose special flight permit for the first prototype helicopter (tail no: TC-HLP), after the inspections conducted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM). This first flight duration was 20 minutes.
In the Turkish Light Class unique Multi-Role Helicopter project, the first bladed engine run-up tests of the T625 Multi-role Helicopter prototype had successfully been carried out on 31 August 2018.
After the “Hover” flight, an intensive test program is being anticipated for the T625 helicopter. In the next period, the helicopter will be subjected to a series of ground and flight tests for about 2 years. To qualify for a type certification, the helicopter should be in compliance with the 1956 safety requirement and perform successfully over a hundred helicopter and system level tests. The EASA CS-29 certification is scheduled to be completed by March 2020 (To + 78) according to the schedule of the program.
The T625 Multi-Role Helicopter Program was launched upon the decision of the Defence Industry Executive Committee dated June 15, 2010. Within the scope of the program, the contract was signed between TA and the Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB) in 2013. The Light Class T625 Multi-Role Helicopter is being designed, developed and manufactured to meet the requirements of both military and civilian users, not only within Turkey but also all around the world.
After the completion of System Requirements on September 15, 2015, Preliminary design on October 20, 2016 and the Dynamic Systems Critical Design on December 28, 2016, the first prototype of the T625 Multi-Role Helicopter was unveiled at the IDEF exhibition held in May 2017. Within the scope of the project, the Critical Design phase was completed on September 29, 2017 and Rotor System Test Preparation Review on August 17, 2018.
As of October 2017, the first prototype design was completed and the manufacturing process began. The initial flight of the T625 Multi-Role Helicopter was fulfilled on 6th September 2018 with the participation of an official delegation. The T625 Multi-Role Helicopter is expected to be in service after of the year 2020.
The aircraft incorporates several new technology features to provide the highest levels of safety and operational benefits. Within the scope of the program, critical systems such as transmission, rotor and landing gear as well as aero structures and avionics systems are designed from scratch. A new generation, advanced aerodynamic indigenous rotor design will provide excellent performance in the most demanding operating environments. The T625 design also benefits from extensive use of composites, advanced airframe aerodynamics, next generation wide screen digital cockpit design and state-of-the-art avionics for maximum situational awareness.
The T625 Helicopter is designed to offer superior useful load and different configuration options, and is planned to serve in areas such as search and rescue, personnel transportation, VIP, firefighting, air ambulance and off-shore operations.
