When was the last time BAYKAR made a reference to TEI or TF6000? I don't remember seeing any info about Turkish engine on their brochures. I feel like it's not on their agenda. And while at it, does anyone know about the efficiency difference between TF6000 and AI-322F? Are there enough difference to justify the use the Turkish engine? Baykar has established a joint venture(Blacksea Shield) to produce Ukranian engines, after all. They would like to capitalize on it, I would think.
Only time they mentioned TEI if I remember, was when they were embargoed heavily by the Canadians and Rotax engine supply ceased. Then they tested PD-170 and were very impressed with it’s power delivery.
Regarding the TF6000 and it’s Ukrainian counterpart ; On paper there is no comparison. TF6000 is miles more advanced than any Soviet era engine. It has blisk fan technology. It uses single crystal turbine blades. Overall efficiency is much more improved.
But if I were to choose today, it will have to be the Ukrainian engine. There is no TF6000 in existence. But when the TF6000 starts spinning, even if it is more expensive it will be cheaper to use it as it is going to be indigenous and technically superior. Hence more frugal on fuel and more akin to an engine for stealth planes.
Comparing the the two is analogous to choosing between carrying passengers with a 1980’s model Ford Transit or with 2020’s Mercedes Vito Tourer.