Image: X @HALHQBLR
HAL And Russia’s UAC Join Hands For Production Of Civil Jet SJ-100
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) to manufacture the SJ-100 civil commuter aircraft in India. The agreement was formalised in Moscow on October 27, marking a key step in boosting India’s indigenous aircraft production capacity.
What the MoU Covers
Under the pact, HAL will gain rights to produce the twin-engine, narrow-body SJ-100 (also known as the Sukhoi/Yakovlev SJ-100) for India’s domestic market and possibly for export. The aircraft is already in operation with several airlines internationally and is aimed at improving regional connectivity. The collaboration aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative in the civil aviation sector.
Strategic Significance
The deal is significant as it would be the first major full-passenger aircraft production programme in India in decades for a civil jet. It promises technology transfer, local assembly and domestic supply-chain participation. Industry observers say if implemented effectively, it could reduce India’s reliance on foreign aircraft for regional operations and support growth of the domestic aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.
Challenges And Outlook
While the MoU is an important milestone, full-scale production will depend on detailed design localisation, certification, investment in infrastructure and supply-chain readiness. Analysts caution that achieving operational manufacturing of the SJ-100 in India will require sustained effort and favourable regulatory support. The timeline for first Indian-built jets remains unclear.
