RuAviation

The experimental Superjet 100 (aircraft number 97023, serial number 97003), equipped with fully localized systems and Russian-made PD-8 engines developed by the United Engine Corporation (UEC), has arrived in Zhukovsky for preparation for flight certification tests. This flight marks a significant milestone in the extensive import substitution program.

The aircraft was piloted by a test crew consisting of Dmitry Demenev, Alexander Verkhov, Igor Grevtsev, and lead flight test engineer and onboard operator Maxim Gryukanov. The route originated from Komsomolsk-on-Amur with intermediate stops in Irkutsk and Novosibirsk, covering approximately 6,000 kilometers. The total flight time was around 9 hours at altitudes up to 12,000 meters and speeds up to Mach 0.78.

According to Dmitry Demenev, the flight followed a standard profile similar to the base version of the aircraft, with all onboard systems functioning flawlessly. Landings at major airports were successful.

PD-8 Engine Features and Import Substitution

The PD-8 engine is a key element in the full replacement of foreign components with domestic ones. Unlike previous generations — the PS-90 took 12 years to develop, and the PD-14 took 8 years — the PD-8 was developed in 6 years, reflecting the growing technological capabilities of Russian aero-engine manufacturing.

PS-90 Took 12 Years, PD-14 – Ten. Engine for “Superjet” PD-8 Created in Six Years

The import substitution program has replaced all major aircraft systems: main and auxiliary power units, avionics, landing gear, integrated control systems, electrical supply, air conditioning, and fire protection systems. The airframe has been updated to simplify production and maintenance.

Certification Tests and Aircraft Involved

After arriving in Zhukovsky, the Superjet was transferred to the Yakovlev Aviation Technical Complex for preparation for the flight certification test program. The program involves three experimental aircraft:

Challenges and Timelines — Words from Vadim Badeha

Vadim Badeha, CEO of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), highlighted that one of the main challenges was the extremely tight timeframe for project implementation. These deadlines were driven by objective circumstances linked to the uncertain situation in 2022, requiring rapid solutions to transportation issues. Consequently, the entire industry faced a complex super-task, which was not fully met.

He explained that such timelines were unprecedented and nearly impossible to meet, but they were not arbitrary. By 2022, the MC-21 and SSJ100 had essentially been certified, and it was assumed that replacing foreign components would be quick. However, suppliers and system manufacturers were not in the best condition, complicating the process.

Badeha also emphasized that significant support came from the fact that as early as 2019, a task was set to restore the civil cooperation system and create Russian-made components. With the support of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, work on import substitution systems began, providing a foundation by 2022. The industry had to mobilize rapidly in 2022 to address emerging challenges.

*For the original interview with Vadim Badeha (in Russian), see RBC.

SJ-100 Autopilot Performance Assessed in Latest Test Flight

Tasks and Progress of Testing

The primary task of the aircraft with serial number 97003 is to demonstrate the integrated operation of all import-substituted systems along with the PD-8 engine. Although flight tests for this aircraft account for about 25–30% of the total program, they are key as they verify the interaction of all systems as a whole. In addition to flights, important ground tests are conducted, including high-frequency high-intensity field exposure tests at the Flight Research Institute (LII) laboratory. Such tests must be performed on a standard configuration aircraft fully representative of the serial model.

To date, approximately 30–40% of the flight test program has been completed. Considering ground test hours, about half of all planned work has been done.

The aircraft with numbers 97021 and 95157 focus on navigation route flights, testing the aircraft navigation system and its accuracy. On aircraft 95157, tests continue on characteristics such as aerodynamics, stability, and handling qualities with the PD-8 engine.

SJ-100 Certification Tests Commence in Komsomolsk-on-Amur

Comparative Context and Global Significance of the Import Substitution Program

The Russian Superjet 100 with PD-8 engines is a unique example of a large-scale import substitution program in civil aviation. Unlike many foreign regional jets such as the Airbus A220 or Embraer E2, which use engines from global leaders Pratt & Whitney and Rolls-Royce, the Russian project aims for full localization of key components.

The PD-8 engine, developed by the United Engine Corporation, is a successor to the Franco-Russian SaM146 engine, whose production was halted due to sanctions. Technically, the PD-8 is comparable to modern medium-class turbofan engines like the Pratt & Whitney PW1000G used on the Embraer E2. However, unlike Western counterparts, the PD-8 was developed under severe time constraints and sanction pressures, making the process particularly challenging and accelerated.

Import substitution in the SSJ100 program is not merely replacing individual components but a comprehensive restructuring of the entire production chain and civil cooperation system. This allows Russia to reduce dependence on foreign technologies and ensure technological independence in a critical industry. This is especially relevant amid global geopolitical instability and sanctions affecting component supplies.

Globally, such import substitution and localization programs are rare and typically associated with major aviation powers seeking strategic autonomy. The Russian experience demonstrates that with government support and industrial mobilization, it is possible to quickly adapt to external challenges and produce competitive products.

Thus, the program to create a fully import-substituted Superjet 100 with PD-8 engines stands as an important example of technological adaptation and innovation in aviation, capable of influencing the balance of power in the global regional aviation market.

Additional:

• For more on Russian aviation industry developments, see Made in Russia: A Complete Turbine Blade Production Cycle Ensures Technological Independence for Aircraft Engine Manufacturing.
• Detailed reports on production and modernization at the Irkutsk Aviation Plant and Sokol Aviation Plant are available at RuAviation: Irkutsk Aviation Plant modernization