A Sukhoi SJ-100-95B Superjet has been sighted at the Zhukovsky airfield near Moscow carrying a distinctive livery featuring the Indian national flag and the branding of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The appearance of the aircraft points to preparations for a static display at the Wings India 2026 exhibition in Hyderabad and has attracted considerable attention within the aviation community.

 

The sighting is widely interpreted as an indication of Russia’s renewed intent to engage with the Indian civil aviation market at a time of shifting global supply chains and industrial partnerships. The aircraft represents the latest evolution of the Superjet family, developed under the SJ-100 programme with a strong emphasis on reducing dependence on Western technologies.

 

In line with Russia’s import-substitution strategy, the SJ-100-95B features domestically produced systems, including Aviadvigatel PD-8 engines and upgraded avionics. These changes are intended to establish a production and maintenance ecosystem that is resilient to external sanctions. The decision to present the aircraft in HAL colours at Zhukovsky suggests a deliberate diplomatic and commercial approach, aimed at drawing the attention of Indian aerospace stakeholders ahead of the Hyderabad airshow.

 

Wings India 2026 is scheduled to take place from 28 to 31 January at Begumpet Airport and is organised by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. The event has become a key platform for global manufacturers seeking to demonstrate long-term commitment to the Indian market.

 

By displaying the SJ-100 with Indian markings, Russian stakeholders appear to be positioning the aircraft within India’s evolving civil aviation landscape, with a particular focus on fleet diversification, regional connectivity and the potential for industrial collaboration. The prominent inclusion of the HAL logo carries notable symbolic significance. While HAL is best known for its defence programmes, including the Tejas LCA and Su-30MKI, the organisation also has extensive experience in licensed production, systems integration and maintenance, repair and overhaul activities. This visual association suggests that future discussions could include possible Indian industry participation in the Superjet programme, ranging from MRO support to component manufacturing.

 

Configured as a regional jet with seating for approximately 95 passengers, the SJ-100-95B aligns closely with the requirements of India’s UDAN regional connectivity scheme. However, any prospective adoption by Indian operators would depend on demonstrated reliability, competitive lifecycle costs and a clear certification pathway meeting Indian and international regulatory standards. As such, the aircraft’s planned presence at Wings India 2026 is best viewed as a marketing and confidence-building initiative rather than an indication of an imminent procurement decision.

 

The choice of Zhukovsky—Russia’s primary centre for aerospace testing and development—for the aircraft’s reveal underscores its status as a developmental demonstrator. The location provides an appropriate backdrop to highlight progress in localisation and programme maturity, while leveraging a major international airshow to engage airlines, lessors and policymakers simultaneously.