India and Russia have formalised an agreement to jointly produce passenger aircraft, just weeks before Russian President Vladimir Putin’s scheduled visit, highlighting the continued strength of ties between New Delhi and Moscow despite growing pressure from the United States.
Under the deal, India’s state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) will collaborate with Russia’s United Aircraft Corp (UAC) to manufacture the SJ-100 civil commuter aircraft, HAL said in a statement on Tuesday (Oct 27). The announcement did not clarify whether the agreement includes technology transfer to India or specify the investment involved.
“This will also be the first instance wherein a complete passenger aircraft will be produced in India,” HAL said, adding that the collaboration reflects “mutual trust between the organisations.” Under the pact, HAL will have the rights to manufacture SJ-100 twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft for Indian customers.
The timing of the announcement comes as India prepares to host Putin in December, amid US criticism over New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian crude. Washington has also imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods, citing both trade barriers and India’s ongoing ties with Moscow.
The partnership supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push to expand domestic manufacturing and improve short-haul connectivity, as India plans to double its number of airports to 350 by 2047. HAL did not provide details on the capital required for the project or which Indian carriers might adopt the aircraft. The company has previously faced challenges in producing sufficient fighter jets for the Indian Air Force, raising questions about its broader aerospace capabilities.
