Russia is significantly strengthening its aviation ties with India, with major agreements for both passenger aircraft supply and local manufacturing nearing completion. The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), a key Russian aerospace entity, expects to finalize several deals with Indian aviation partners during the Innoprom India exhibition, which runs from September 9 to 11 in New Delhi.
New Aircraft Deals for Indian Carriers
UAC CEO Vadim Badekha confirmed that negotiations have progressed substantially over the past six months. Among the proposed agreements is a deal for 50 IL-114-300 regional passenger aircraft, earmarked for Pinnacle Air. Additionally, Russia is in talks to supply up to 20 aircraft for Air Kerala and another 35 aircraft under a memorandum of understanding with Sleek Aviation.
Local Production of SJ-100 Jet Nears Agreement
Beyond direct aircraft sales, Russia is pushing for expanded aircraft manufacturing within India. Discussions regarding the local production of Russia's SJ-100 regional jet are reportedly 80% complete, with an agreement anticipated soon. This builds on an existing framework, as UAC and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) have already signed an agreement for the joint licensed production of the SJ-100 in India.
These proposed aerospace collaborations are set to broaden the scope of India-Russia cooperation, moving beyond traditional defense ties into civil aviation, enhancing regional connectivity, and bolstering India's domestic aircraft manufacturing capabilities.
The Innoprom India exhibition, hosting over 120 Russian and Indian companies, serves as a crucial platform for these developments. The event precedes the BRICS Summit, scheduled for September 12-13, which Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to attend, arriving in India on September 11.