At the Wings India 2026 airshow held in Hyderabad, Russia showcased its Superjet SJ-100 and Il-114-300 turboprop, marking a significant moment in the joint civil aviation venture with India. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), a state-run Indian aerospace company, signed an agreement with United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) indicating plans to potentially manufacture the SJ-100 jets in India. This partnership reflects a deepening of technological ties between the two nations, particularly in the aerospace sector, which has gained momentum in recent years.

Additionally, during the airshow, UAC confirmed a deal to supply six Ilyushin Il-114-300 aircraft to Indian regional carrier Flamingo Aerospace, further solidifying the collaboration. The announcements made at the event highlight a strategic move towards not only expanding their joint civil aviation capabilities but also enhancing regional connectivity and mutual economic benefits. This represents a shift from previous focuses on military cooperation to include civilian aircraft manufacturing, suggesting a broader ambition for India-Russia collaboration in various sectors.

The Wings India airshow, regarded as Asia’s largest civil aviation event, featured 34 aircraft and attracted significant attention, including participation from India’s civil aviation minister, showcasing both nations' commitments to expanding their aviation sectors. As the global aviation industry evolves, this partnership signifies an innovative approach to manufacturing and may reshape the landscape for regional airlines and aviation technology in both countries, potentially enabling them to compete on an international scale.