Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Zhukovsky Aviation Center near Moscow to inspect Russia’s latest domestically developed civilian aircraft—the SJ-100 Superjet and the IL-114-300. During the visit, Putin praised the country’s aviation industry, saying Russia had successfully developed modern aircraft entirely through indigenous technology, significantly reducing its dependence on foreign components and expertise.

Putin said Russia is no longer reliant on European or American technologies for aircraft manufacturing. He described the achievement as a major milestone in the country’s drive for technological self-reliance, crediting Russian engineers and scientists for building world-class aircraft using domestic capabilities.

Boost to Russia’s Indigenous Aviation Industry

During the inspection, Putin was presented with several new aircraft models developed by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), including the MS-21-310, SJ-100, and IL-114-300.

Addressing a meeting on the development of Russia’s civil aviation sector, the President emphasized that the government would take all necessary measures to ensure that Russian airlines increasingly operate aircraft manufactured within the country.

Strong India Connection

The visit has attracted attention in India as both the SJ-100 regional jet and the IL-114-300 turboprop are reportedly under consideration for India’s regional aviation expansion plans.

According to reports, India is evaluating the acquisition of nearly 200 regional aircraft to improve air connectivity to smaller cities and underserved routes under its regional aviation network.

Local Manufacturing with HAL Under Discussion

Russian officials have also indicated that discussions are underway with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) regarding the possibility of manufacturing these aircraft in India.

If the proposal moves forward, the SJ-100 could be produced in India under a licensing agreement, strengthening bilateral cooperation in the aerospace sector.

Indian Airlines Show Interest

Senior executives of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) said Indian airlines have shown significant interest in both the SJ-100 and IL-114-300.

According to Russian officials, India is the first country to demonstrate serious commercial interest in these aircraft. Both models were showcased during the Wings India aviation exhibition last year, where Indian carriers explored their operational capabilities and commercial potential.

Market Potential of 200–300 Aircraft

Russian aviation experts estimate that India and neighboring regional markets could require between 200 and 300 regional aircraft in the coming years.

If finalized, the agreement could become one of the largest civil aviation partnerships between India and Russia.

Production in India Could Begin Within Three Years

Sources suggest that, subject to regulatory approvals and commercial agreements, production of the SJ-100 in India could begin within the next three years.

The initial manufacturing capacity is expected to be around 20 to 40 aircraft annually, supporting India’s aviation manufacturing ambitions under the Make in India initiative.

IL-114-300 Completes Over 350 Test Flights

Russia’s IL-114-300 turboprop has completed more than 350 test flights and has received the required certification.

Aviation experts believe the aircraft is well suited for India’s regional aviation needs, particularly for operations from smaller airports and shorter runways.

If India proceeds with the project, it would extend beyond aircraft procurement to include technology transfer, domestic manufacturing, and strengthening India’s indigenous aerospace capabilities, marking a significant step forward in India-Russia strategic cooperation in civil aviation.