Russia–India Aircraft Deal: Certification, Leasing & Local Production Explained

Russian aircraft are gaining strong attention in India’s aerospace sector—having already secured their first customer and now entering negotiations to expand future orders in the market.

Regulatory approval is expected soon, and once granted, it will provide a major advantage for exporting the aircraft from India.

Several aircraft worldwide already operate under international certifications. In this case, due to cost efficiency and exports to multiple countries, the program also benefits from license validations across multiple foreign aviation authorities.

While the certificate is currently suspended, it has not been cancelled—it remains valid.This allows the manufacturer to apply the same certification basis to the aircraft, covering the complete set of certification rules, compliance standards, documentation, and procedures, without compromising on any requirements. The experience accumulated over the years remains fully applicable.

As a result, They will offer the Indian market an aircraft that complies not only with Russian and Indian regulations, but also meets European certification requirements. They are fully prepared to work closely with Indian aviation authorities, and I am confident that by the end of the development process, the type certificate will be validated in line with the most advanced international standards, ensuring the highest levels of flight safety.

One point still under discussion is the leasing model. If we begin with a leasing option, will it be a wet lease initially, including pilots, or will a different arrangement be required?

We are also evaluating whether the OEM will oversee preparation and delivery, what level of support will be provided to the local operator, and how many aircraft can be made ready within the required timelines. These aspects will be discussed jointly to ensure smooth preparation, market readiness, and a balanced partnership that delivers real, long-term benefits for both countries.

Regarding the agreement signed with Flamingo, the Hyderabad-based aerospace company, for six aircraft—this is not a supervision contract, but an opportunity linked to another product program. On the subject of technology transfer, Russia and India have more than 16 years of cooperation across aviation and other industrial sectors. We already have extensive experience with technology transfer, particularly through military programs.

At this stage, together with our partners and HAL, we are open to discussing industrial cooperation and localized production opportunities. The goal is to increase production capacity and better meet the requirements of the broader Indian market, while strengthening long-term collaboration.

On the market potential of the SJ-100 in India, the outlook is quite strong. This is not a case where only a handful of aircraft would be introduced—such small numbers would not justify setting up operations or infrastructure.

From an operational and market perspective, we are looking at around 100 aircraft over a seven-year period as a realistic baseline. In fact, figures discussed in official and industry-level assessments mention 300 to 400 aircraft, which we believe is a very reasonable projection. This is precisely why we are seriously considering and preparing for the steps you have proposed.

Regarding manufacturing in India, the timeline depends on multiple factors, including partnerships, certification, and industrial readiness. Realistically, a five to ten-year timeframe is appropriate for establishing local production and scaling it in a sustainable way.

As for the next steps, the focus will be on preparation, coordination, and long-term planning to ensure the program is viable and beneficial for all stakeholders.

Finally, I would like to sincerely thank you for your attention. It has been a great pleasure to visit you in person from Russia, and I firmly believe in the potential of this collaboration.

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