India and Russia have entered into a strategic partnership to develop a twin-engine, narrow-body passenger aircraft designed for short-haul flights. The agreement was finalized in Moscow on October 27, 2025, between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a state-owned aerospace company, and the Russian government-controlled Public Joint Stock Company United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC-UAC). This marks a significant step in India’s aviation industry, as it represents the country’s first project aimed at manufacturing a commercial passenger aircraft.
The SJ-100 aircraft, already in use by over 16 commercial airlines, has seen more than 200 units produced to date. HAL anticipates that the SJ-100 will revolutionize short-haul air travel in India, particularly under the UDAN scheme, which aims to enhance regional air connectivity. With this agreement, HAL has secured the rights to manufacture the SJ-100 for domestic markets, allowing it to contribute directly to meeting local aviation demands.
The signing ceremony was attended by HAL’s Chairman and Managing Director, D.K. Sunil, and PJSC-UAC’s Director General, Vadim Badekha. HAL emphasized that producing the SJ-100 in India will usher in a new chapter for the nation’s aviation sector, enhancing capabilities and fostering growth in an industry that is rapidly evolving.
Original Source: https://www.india.com/business/special-aircraft-to-be-developed-for-short-distance-flights-hal-will-collaborate-with-russia-to-develop-narrow-body-flights-moscow-india-hal-sj-100-aircraft-udan-scheme-8154541/
Category: Business,Aircraft,HAL,Indian Aviation Industry,Russia
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Publish Date: 2025-10-28 21:40:00
