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Russian SJ-100 civil commuter aircraft will now be manufactured in India. HAL has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Russia's United Aircraft Corporation for this purpose. This could prove to be a game-changer for the UDAN scheme, which provides air connectivity to smaller cities and towns.
This MoU was signed in Moscow on October 28th. Prabhat Ranjan of HAL and Oleg Bogomolov of PJSC-UAC signed it in the presence of HAL Chairman and Managing Director DK Sunil and PJSC-UAC Director General Vadim Badeka.
The last full-fledged passenger aircraft manufacturing project in India ran from 1961 to 1988. This HAL project was named AVRO HS748. After that, we started importing aircraft. This tie-up with Russia could reduce India's dependence on imports.
Background of HAL and PJSC-UAC
HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited): An Indian state-owned company that manufactures military aircraft primarily, such as the Tejas fighter jet, but is now entering civil aviation. HAL states that this MoU is part of its "diversification."
PJSC-UAC (Public Joint Stock Company United Aircraft Corporation): Russia's state-owned aerospace joint manufacturer of military and civil aircraft. They possess the full technology and experience of the SJ-100. UAC has built over 200 SJ-100 aircraft, which are flying with 16+ commercial airline operators.
This partnership extends Russia and India's long-standing defence tie-up into the civilian sector. HAL will receive the "rights" to manufacture the SJ-100, enabling local production in India.
SJ-100 Aircraft: Twin-engine, narrow-body commuter plane
This plane is ideal for short-haul routes, carrying 75-100 passengers. Its range is approximately 3,500 kilometres. It is successful in Russia.
Aircraft Model SJ-100 (Sukhoi Superjet 100) – Twin-engine, narrow-body regional jet
SJ-100 – Benefits for India
HAL says, "The SJ-100's production in India will be a game-changer for the UDAN scheme. This plane is fuel-efficient, and local production will reduce costs."
Under the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, small cities like Gorakhpur, Deoghar, and Port Blair are being connected.
Regional Connectivity: India requires over 200 such jets within the next 10 years. 100+ new airports are being built under the UDAN scheme. The SJ-100 will be their lifeline.
Jobs and Skills: Local manufacturing will create thousands of jobs. Engineers, technicians, and the supply chain will receive a boost.
Reduced Import Dependence: Currently, India imports 90% of its planes. This MoU will increase self-reliance. It can be called a perfect example of "Make in India."
International Reach: There is a demand for 350+ aircraft in the Indian Ocean region. The SJ-100 can connect tourist destinations like the Maldives or Sri Lanka.
HAL CMD DK Sunil said, "This MoU will give a new direction to India's civil aviation." Russia's UAC DG Vadim Badeka called it a strategic partnership.
Financial and Technical Details
Financial details have not yet been revealed, but it is estimated that the production cost of the SJ-100 will be $20-25 million (approximately INR 170-200 crore) per unit. Russia will provide HAL with design, engine, and assembly support.
Production Roadmap
Source: Dainik Bhaskar
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