News Desk
India has expressed strong interest in acquiring up to 200 Russian-made regional aircraft as part of a broader effort to expand regional air connectivity and strengthen domestic aerospace manufacturing capabilities. The potential deal, involving Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), could mark one of the largest aviation partnerships between the two countries in recent years.
According to UAC Chief Executive Vadim Badekha, Indian airline operators have shown significant interest in two Russian regional aircraft models—the SJ-100 Superjet and the Il-114-300 turboprop aircraft. Speaking ahead of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF-2026), Badekha revealed that discussions are underway for the possible purchase of between 100 and 200 aircraft.
The announcement follows Russia’s participation in the Wings India 2026 aviation exhibition held in Hyderabad earlier this year, where both aircraft were showcased to Indian airlines, aviation officials, and industry stakeholders.
The SJ-100 Superjet is a twin-engine regional jet capable of carrying up to 100 passengers, while the Il-114-300 turboprop can accommodate 68 passengers. Both aircraft are designed for short- and medium-haul routes, making them particularly suitable for connecting smaller cities with major aviation hubs.
India’s rapidly expanding aviation sector has created growing demand for regional aircraft. The country became the world’s third-largest air passenger market in 2025, supported by a sharp increase in airport infrastructure. The number of airports operating scheduled commercial flights has more than doubled over the past decade, rising from 74 in 2014 to approximately 160 in 2025.
Industry analysts estimate that India’s regional aircraft market could require between 300 and 400 new aircraft over the next 20 years as passenger traffic continues to grow. Currently, the sector is dominated by aircraft manufactured by ATR, Bombardier, and Embraer, leaving room for new competitors to enter the market.
A key aspect of the proposed partnership is local production. UAC has signed an agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s state-owned aerospace and defense manufacturer, to explore licensed production of the SJ-100 in India. If approved, the first Superjet assembled in India could roll off production lines within three years, according to Badekha.
The initiative aligns with India’s long-standing strategy of encouraging foreign aerospace companies to establish local manufacturing facilities and integrate Indian suppliers into global production chains. The government has consistently pushed foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to increase localization and technology transfer as part of aviation and defense partnerships.
Badekha stated that producing between 20 and 40 Superjets annually in India would represent a sustainable manufacturing pace. He also estimated that demand from India and neighboring markets could eventually reach between 200 and 300 aircraft.
In addition to the Superjet program, UAC is exploring opportunities to localize production of the Il-114-300 in India. The Russian manufacturer has already signed a preliminary agreement with Indian aviation company Flamingo Aerospace for the supply of six Il-114-300 aircraft, signaling early commercial interest in the platform.
The potential agreement reflects deepening economic and industrial cooperation between India and Russia. Beyond aircraft sales, the partnership could support India’s ambitions to build a stronger domestic aerospace ecosystem, create skilled manufacturing jobs, and reduce reliance on imported aviation products.
If finalized, the deal would not only expand India’s regional aviation network but could also position the country as a future production hub for Russian regional aircraft serving markets across South Asia and beyond.
