This week's rollout of the Antonov AN-132 twin-engine transport marks the latest application for Dowty Propellers' proven R408 propeller system, which already is in widespread service around the globe.

Dowty Propellers provided two of the R408 propeller systems and a spare for the AN-132D demonstrator aircraft – which was presented to an international audience at Antonov's headquarters facility in Kiev.

“We have been continually impressed by Antonov's professionalism and commitment in developing the AN-132D, and the company can count on our full support for the upcoming test and demonstration flights of this aircraft,” said Oliver Towers, the President of Dowty Propellers.

The R408 propeller system has six all-composite blades with advanced swept design and optimized ARA-D/A airfoil sections, providing excellent climb and cruise performance while generating low noise levels.

The AN-132D demonstrator is being developed by Antonov with participation from Saudi Arabia's King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). It is equipped with Pratt & Whitney Canada PW150A turboprop engines, which have logged millions of flight hours powering the Dowty Propellers' R408 propeller systems.

Dowty Propellers assisted in the R408 propeller system's integration and commissioning on the AN-132D, and has provided training for personnel from both Antonov and KACST. Technical support from Dowty Propellers will continue for the AN-132's flight test phase, as well as the multi-purpose aircraft's demonstration flights.