New Delhi, Sept 2026 : India and Russia have stepped up discussions on aircraft manufacturing, with Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu saying talks are progressing on the IL-114 turboprop and Sukhoi Superjet-100. The proposed cooperation is aimed at strengthening India’s regional aviation network and supporting the country’s expanding fleet requirements.
Naidu said the two aircraft are particularly suited to India’s regional connectivity needs, especially as new airports are being developed across the country. According to the minister, both models can efficiently connect smaller airports and help improve air connectivity beyond major aviation hubs.
He said India is keen to move towards domestic manufacturing of the aircraft at the earliest. Discussions with the Russian delegation focused on the Memorandum of Understanding between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Russia, which envisages establishing production lines in India.
The minister said the expanding dialogue reflects India’s broader efforts to strengthen its aviation ecosystem and ensure that regional connectivity programmes are supported by appropriate aircraft platforms. The IL-114 turboprop and Sukhoi Superjet-100 are expected to contribute significantly to this objective.
The IL-114 is designed for regional operations and is considered suitable for connecting smaller cities and airports. The Sukhoi Superjet-100, meanwhile, is a regional jet intended for short- and medium-haul routes. Domestic production of such aircraft could potentially support India’s ambitions to expand regional air services while developing indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
Naidu also spoke about India’s preparations for the upcoming BRICS Summit in New Delhi, describing it as one of the most significant international events being hosted by the country. He said the government had taken comprehensive measures to ensure that the summit creates a strong and positive global impression.
Delegations from several countries and sectors are expected to participate in the summit, with India’s growing role in global affairs likely to be a key focus. Naidu said the Russian delegation had praised India’s transformation over the past two decades and recognised the country as an increasingly important partner for nations across the world.
Recalling his interaction with the Russian delegation, the minister said its members had highlighted the significant changes in India compared with two decades ago. They noted the country’s stronger international presence and its ability to utilise platforms such as BRICS to pursue new opportunities and deepen partnerships.
Naidu said the summit provides India with an opportunity to showcase its economic and strategic transformation while engaging constructively with international partners.
He added that preparations are underway not only in Delhi but also at airports, venues and other facilities involved in receiving foreign delegates. Special attention is being given to hospitality and arrangements are being made in accordance with the principle of Atithi Devo Bhava, reflecting India’s traditional emphasis on welcoming guests.
The 18th BRICS Summit will be held in New Delhi on September 12 and 13 under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” The gathering is expected to bring together leaders and delegations from across the world, providing India with an important platform to advance cooperation and shape discussions on global and regional issues.
(Disclaimer :The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)
