The Russian government has launched a comprehensive program to boost the production of domestic aircraft, engines, and equipment, aiming to accelerate import substitution amidst Western sanctions.
Russia is nearing the completion of its goal to establish an independent aircraft industry. This progress is largely attributed to the development of Russia’s fully domestically produced Yakovlev MC-21 and Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SJ-100) planes.
The inaugural flights of the MC-21 and SJ-100 aircraft, equipped with domestic engines, are scheduled for 2025. Yakovlev promises this will showcase Russia’s capability to design and manufacture modern airliners independently, without relying on Western component suppliers, according to the country’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Anton Alikhanov.
The MC-21 is a next-generation, medium-haul, single-aisle airliner developed by the Yakovlev Corporation, with production set for 2025. Serial production of the MC-21 is already in progress, with the aircraft currently undergoing certification tests.
Airlines can expect to receive at least ten MC-21 aircraft in 2025. Experts predict that production facilities will be capable of producing 36 aircraft annually within approximately three years.
Russian Engines The PD-14 turboprop engine for the MC-21 aircraft is ready, with certification flights planned for late March to early April 2025.
Certification flights for the SJ-100 short-haul regional passenger jet, featuring the domestic PD-8 engine, are also slated to begin next year. Ground testsare nearing completion. Additionally, the PD-35, a prospective ultra-high thrust turbofan engine for long-range airliners and military transport aircraft, is currently under development.