How Russia Replacing US in Indian Aviation Deals

The recent partnership between India and Russia marks a significant shift in their aviation collaboration, moving beyond defense into the civil sector. At the Wings India 2026 exhibition, Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation formalized a preliminary agreement with Indian firm Flamingo Aerospace to supply six Ilyushin Il-114-300 aircraft. This deal is not merely a purchase but a strategic step toward localization under the Make in India initiative.

The agreement outlines a clear roadmap for transferring technology, with plans to establish local competencies for assembly, maintenance, and repair. This development specifically targets India’s UDAN scheme, which demands rugged aircraft capable of operating from short runways in remote areas. By introducing the Il-114-300, Russia aims to fill a critical gap in India’s regional connectivity market while bypassing Western sanctions through direct bilateral cooperation. This venture could eventually lead to full-scale domestic production, strengthening India’s aerospace self-reliance.