Production of Russian SJ-100 in India could begin in three years - United Aircraft Corporation head

MOSCOW. Feb 4 (Interfax) - The production of Russian SJ-100 in India could begin in three years' time, head of Rostec-owned PJSC United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) Vadim Badekha told reporters at the National Aviation Infrastructure Salon 2026 forum.

The UAC and corporation Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) had already signed a contract, pledging to collaborate in the licensed production of regional Superjet 100 aircraft in India.

"We could discuss when the first plane will be produced. This is probably a question for both parties. But our partners, the HAL company, have confirmed that the production of the first plane is expected in around three years - those are their timings," Badekha said, adding that this referred to 2028-2029.

In future, the UAC hopes to produce between 20 and 40 SJ-100 planes in India each year. "The Indian market and that of the surrounding countries holds a fair amount of potential - that's around 200-300 planes. I think that a pace of 20 to 40 planes [per year] would be good," Badekha said.

Badekha also noted the potential for localizing the Il-114 aircraft in India.

"Today, we signed preliminary delivery contracts for this aircraft. We also believe it can and should be localized in India. This opportunity exists, and the market potential for this aircraft is even higher - we believe the production rate could be 30-40 aircraft. It depends on the market. Today, the key factor limiting us is the market. Production capacity for our entire line has been established - we can produce as many aircraft as needed. Now it's important for the market to formulate its own demands," Badekha said.

According to him, a balanced demand is crucial for localization. "It's crucial for us, of course, to avoid explosive growth followed by a decline in demand. It's important that it be a steady, balanced demand over a period of 7-10 years," the head of UAC added.