NEW DELHI: India’s state-owned aeronautics firm has signed a deal with a Russian aircraft manufacturer currently under United States and European sanctions.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited announced the agreement with United Aircraft Corporation to manufacture civil passenger aircraft in India for the first time.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed this development as a landmark step for the Indian civil aviation sector.
He stated the partnership would create jobs and boost national self-reliance in aircraft manufacturing.
Western allies have previously criticised India’s policy towards Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The United States and other partners have demanded that Delhi comply with international sanctions against Moscow.
India has consistently maintained that it does not subscribe to unilateral sanction measures imposed by other nations.
According to the agreement signed in Moscow, HAL will partner with United Aircraft Corporation to produce SJ-100 twin-engine narrow-body planes.
These aircraft will serve domestic customers within India’s aviation market.
HAL emphasised this marks the first instance where a complete passenger aircraft will be produced entirely within India.
Both HAL and Defence Minister Singh described the partnership as a game-changer for short-haul connectivity.
The deal underscores Delhi’s continued defence and energy cooperation with Moscow despite increasing international scrutiny.
India has faced mounting pressure over its substantial oil purchases from Russia in recent months.
United States President Donald Trump raised tariffs on Indian exports to 50% in August.
Washington accused India of indirectly fuelling Russia’s war effort in Ukraine through its economic engagements.
Trump recently claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to reduce Russian oil imports as part of potential trade negotiations.
Indian officials have not confirmed any such agreement regarding reduced Russian oil purchases. – AFP
