Vladimir Klimov was selected in 1933 to open a construction bureau (KB) to develop an Russian version of the Hispano-Suiza 12Y. Klimov designed V-12s accounted for 129,000 combat engines produced from 1935-46.
Klimov was also in the forefront of Russian turbojet design when his design bureau copied the Rolls-Royce Nene.

Sergei Isotov, Klimov's deputy, designed helicopter turboshaft engines that are known by his name.

Klimov's design bureau is now known as the Klimov Corporation and has partnership agreements with Pratt & Whitney Canada and Motor Sich.