In a major boost to India’s civil aviation manufacturing ambitions, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Public Joint Stock Company United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC-UAC), Russia for the production of the SJ-100 civil commuter aircraft in India.
The agreement was signed in Moscow on October 27, 2025, by Shri Prabhat Ranjan from HAL and Mr. Oleg Bogomolov from PJSC UAC, in the presence of Dr. D.K. Sunil, CMD, HAL, and Mr. Vadim Badeka, Director General, PJSC UAC.
A Game-Changer for Regional Connectivity
The SJ-100 is a twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft, already in operation with more than 200 units flying across 16 airlines globally. The aircraft is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfort—making it an ideal fit for short-haul routes under India’s UDAN Scheme, which promotes regional air connectivity.
Under this MoU, HAL will acquire manufacturing rights for SJ-100 aircraft for domestic customers in India. This will make it the first-ever passenger aircraft to be produced entirely in India—a landmark achievement for the Indian aerospace industry. The last such project was HAL’s AVRO HS-748, produced between 1961 and 1988.
A Leap Toward ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in Aviation
The collaboration between HAL and UAC symbolizes deep mutual trust and a shared vision for developing indigenous aerospace capabilities. It also marks a new chapter in India’s aviation history, positioning the country as a potential hub for civil aircraft manufacturing.
According to industry estimates, India’s aviation sector will require over 200 jets in this category over the next decade to meet regional connectivity needs, along with an additional 350 aircraft to serve Indian Ocean and nearby international tourist destinations.
Economic and Industrial Impact
This initiative is expected to:
- Strengthen India’s domestic manufacturing ecosystem
- Create direct and indirect employment in the aviation and allied sectors
- Enhance the participation of private industries and MSMEs in aerospace manufacturing
- Contribute significantly to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) mission
“This collaboration marks the beginning of a new era for India’s civil aviation sector,” said a HAL official. “For the first time in decades, passenger aircraft will be manufactured in India, empowering local industries and boosting economic growth.”
A Milestone for Indian Aviation
The HAL–UAC partnership signifies more than a manufacturing deal—it’s a step toward technological self-sufficiency, strategic collaboration, and economic transformation. By bringing advanced civil aircraft production to India, the agreement places the country firmly on the global aviation map.
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