India takes flight: HAL partners with Russia to manufacture SJ-100 passenger aircraft, first time in 37 years

New Delhi/Moscow (The Uttam Hindu): India's civil aviation sector has taken a historic step toward realizing the dream of a "self-reliant India." India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Russia's Public Joint Stock Company United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC-UAC) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the production of the SJ-100 civil commuter aircraft.

This significant agreement was concluded in Moscow, Russia, on October 27, 2025. The MoU was signed by Prabhat Ranjan, representing HAL, and Oleg Bogomolov, representing PJSC-UAC, Russia. Dr. D.K. Sunil, CMD, HAL, and Vadim Badeka, Director General, PJSC-UAC, were also present.

According to the news, this significant partnership will grant Hindustan Aeronautics Limited the rights to produce the SJ-100 aircraft for domestic customers (Indian airlines). This agreement is the result of deep mutual trust between the two organizations and is considered a major milestone for India's aviation industry.

The SJ-100 is a twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft, with over 200 units already produced and currently operated by over 16 commercial airline operators. The aircraft has the potential to be a game-changer for short-haul connectivity under the Indian government's ambitious "UDAN" scheme.

Aviation experts estimate that the Indian aviation sector will need more than 200 jets in this class for regional connectivity in the next ten years. Additionally, an additional 350 aircraft will be needed to serve nearby international tourist destinations in the Indian Ocean region.

This collaboration between HAL and UAC is also historic, as it will mark the first time a full-fledged passenger aircraft has been produced in India. Previously, HAL began production of the AVRO HS-748 in 1961, which was discontinued in 1988.

The production of the SJ-100 aircraft will mark a new chapter in the history of the Indian aviation industry. It is believed that this production will not only strengthen the private sector but will also create significant direct and indirect employment opportunities in the aviation industry.