SJ-100 civil aircraft to be manufactured in India using Russian technology: Agreement between HAL and Russian state-owned company; could be a game-changer for the UDAN scheme

Russian SJ-100 civil commuter aircraft will now be manufactured in India. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has signed an MoU 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.

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 mostly military aircraft, 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 entire 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-India’s long-standing defense 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 perfect for short routes, carrying 75-100 passengers. It is designed for travel distances of 100-500 km. It is successful in Russia.

SJ-100 – A game changer for the UDAN scheme, learn about 4 benefits for India

• Regional connectivity: India needs 200+ such jets in the next 10 years. 100+ new airports are being built under the UDAN scheme. The SJ-100 will become 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: The Indian Ocean region has a demand for 350+ aircraft. The SJ-100 could connect tourist destinations such as the Maldives or Sri Lanka.