HAL Signs MoU with Russia’s UAC to Build SJ-100 Jet in India under ‘Make in India’ Initiative

Moscow, October 27, 2025 — In a landmark step toward reviving India’s civil aviation manufacturing sector, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) to jointly produce the SJ-100 regional jet in India.

Under this agreement, HAL will have exclusive rights to assemble the aircraft domestically, aligning with the Government of India’s UDAN scheme to boost regional air connectivity. The initiative is expected to accelerate the production of affordable, short-haul passenger aircraft tailored for routes linking India’s tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

The SJ-100—a modern twin-engine aircraft designed to carry 75 to 100 passengers—offers a flight range of up to 4,500 kilometres and runs on indigenously developed Russian PD-8 engines.

Officials said the collaboration will not only help meet India’s rising demand for regional jets but also mark a significant stride under the ‘Make in India’ programme, fostering advanced technology transfer and generating new employment opportunities in the aviation sector.

Industry analysts view the partnership as a milestone that could revitalize India’s civilian aircraft production after several decades, signalling a new phase of cooperation between India and Russia in high-technology industries.