In an apparent geopolitical message, India has inked a historic deal with Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) to manufacture the SJ-100 passenger aircraft. Notably, the company is currently under US and EU sanctions. The plane will be produced in India for the domestic aviation market.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was on Tuesday signed in Moscow between the UAC and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a Defence Ministry-owned enterprise.

India’s decision to partner with a sanctioned entity introduces geopolitical complexities. New Delhi has traditionally maintained strong defence and aerospace ties with Moscow, including licensed production of Su-30MKI fighter jets and T-90 tanks. The move signals that India intends to continue its cooperation with Russia despite sanctions

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