Did HAL Just Sign a Groundbreaking MoU with Russia’s UAC for SJ-100 Aircraft Production?
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Synopsis
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has forged a significant partnership with Russia’s UAC to manufacture the SJ-100 aircraft in India, marking a historic return to passenger aircraft production after decades. This collaboration is poised to enhance regional aviation and support India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Key Takeaways
- HAL signs MoU with UAC for SJ-100 production.
- First complete passenger aircraft manufactured in India.
- Collaboration supports UDAN scheme for regional connectivity.
- India needs over 200 jets in this category in the next decade.
- Enhances domestic aviation capabilities.
New Delhi, Oct 28 (NationPress) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has officially revealed that it has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Russia’s Public Joint Stock Company United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC-UAC) for the manufacturing of the SJ-100 civil commuter aircraft in Moscow, Russia.
The MoU was executed by Prabhat Ranjan representing HAL and Oleg Bogomolov from PJSC-UAC, with D.K. Sunil, the Chairman and Managing Director of HAL, and Vadim Badeka, the Director General of PJSC-UAC, also in attendance, as stated in an exchange filing by the company.
The SJ-100 is a twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft that is currently operational, with over 200 units already flying with 16 commercial airlines globally.
HAL highlighted that this collaboration would significantly enhance India’s regional aviation landscape.
“The SJ-100 is set to revolutionize short-haul connectivity under the UDAN scheme in India. Through this partnership, HAL will obtain the rights to manufacture the SJ-100,” the company asserted.
This agreement signifies a groundbreaking achievement, as it represents the first instance of an entire passenger aircraft being produced in India.
The last similar endeavor was HAL’s production of the AVRO HS748, which took place from 1961 to 1988.
HAL projects that India’s aviation industry will require over 200 jets in this category in the next decade to improve regional connectivity.
Moreover, an additional 350 aircraft might be needed for the Indian Ocean region to cater to nearby international tourist attractions.
This partnership aims to bolster India’s aviation aspirations, supporting the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative by reviving passenger aircraft manufacturing in the country after over three decades.
Point of View
This partnership between HAL and PJSC-UAC signifies a pivotal moment in India’s aviation industry. It reflects the government's commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and revitalizing domestic aerospace manufacturing. This collaboration not only aligns with national interests but also strengthens India's position in the global aviation market.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SJ-100 aircraft?
The SJ-100 is a twin-engine, narrow-body civil commuter aircraft with over 200 units currently in operation across 16 commercial airlines worldwide.
What is the significance of the MoU between HAL and UAC?
The MoU allows HAL to manufacture the SJ-100 aircraft in India, marking the first time a complete passenger aircraft will be produced domestically in over three decades.
How will this MoU impact India's aviation sector?
This collaboration is expected to significantly boost regional connectivity and support the government's ‘Make in India’ initiative by enhancing domestic aircraft manufacturing capabilities.
What was the last aircraft produced by HAL?
The last passenger aircraft produced by HAL was the AVRO HS748, which was manufactured from 1961 until 1988.
How many jets does India need in the next decade?
HAL estimates that India’s aviation sector will require over 200 jets in the commuter category over the next decade to enhance regional connectivity.
