China and France co-developed turboshaft-8 in July 1982

In 1981, China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation signed an Arriel engine patent transfer contract with Safran Helicopter Engines, a world leading turbine manufacturer in France. China South Aviation Motive Power Machine Company was entitled to develop turboshaft-8 engines with the whole design, craft, metallurgy and test data of Arriel engines. In July 1982, the first turboshaft-8 engine was born. The picture shows some of the scientific researchers involved.

Photo source:

Aero Engine Corporation of China