Not only that I think we all know that the moment we prove we can do it. The restrictions they put on us becomes obsolete. Which leaves only one question, do they want to make money or lose out.
Proving that TS1400 works on T129 platform would make US restriction obsolete, and all pressure be on Italy.
But I'm not hearing anyone saying Italians won't permit it. All I hear and read is US won't allow export of engine.
Engine in T129 can be changed there is no problem about it, that is not hard and Leonardo is still partner of the project, they gladly accept it but Turkey's sole producer license ends in 2028. Turkey already secured / tested and stockpiled reliable and proven engine CTS800, certifying another engine for Turkish Helo's is not feasible atm. Also not feasible for future sales! Turkey will rather focus on its T129 rival (T629).
On the other hand TS1400 just rolled out its first civilian versions, it has to be tested on helicopters, complete all process before militarizing it. Even after militarization, you would need to reconfigure / retrofit T129 for this new engine than make tests on the helicopter. It takes years and not feasible for Turkish Ataks which will cease production on 2028. Why not build a new helicopter for the engine from scratch ? T129s already got their engines after years of testing.
And regarding Pakistan, they ordered T129 with current engines, they tested that version. If you change engine,whole performance changes and tests have to be done again which will again take years.. (It is already delayed..) But of course if they accept engine replacement, that project could be initiated, which should have done in the beginning.
As far as we know, sadly none of these tests have been done or started. What about if it takes 5 more years.. will Pakistan wait?
