Engines
PBS and Ivchenko Sign MoU for Small Turbojet
A partnership between PBS and Ivchenko aims to build a new turbine engine for small UAVs and cruise missiles.
 AI-PBS-350
A model of the AI-PBS-350. The engine will measure only 9.7 inches in length and 11.5 inches in diameter. (Photo: Chris Pocock)

Czech engineering company PBS and Ukrainian engine designer Ivchenko Progress signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a compact turbojet for small UAVs and cruise missiles this week at Le Bourget. The AI-PBS-350 will produce 765 pounds of thrust but weighs only 112 pounds. Measuring only 9.7 inches long and 11.5 inches in diameter, it will feature a four-stage axial compressor and a single-stage axial turbine.

PBS manufactures eight small turbojets and a turboprop engine used for UAVs, microjets such as the Sonex Aircraft SubSonex kit-built single-engine jet, and helicopters. It also makes APUs and environmental control systems and has been cooperating with Ivchenko since 2006. “We will learn from each other on this new high-level engineering project,” said Marek Fiala, PBS director of marketing.