Rostec, one of Russia’s largest defence industry companies, issued a written statement emphasising the need for the country’s civil aviation fleet to consist entirely of domestically produced aircraft. Citing the withdrawal of Western manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus from the Russian market, the company stated that reopening the doors to foreign producers would be “an unpatriotic approach.”
“100% Domestic Production Is the Only Way Forward”
In its statement, Rostec took a firm stance against the possible return of Western aircraft manufacturers to Russia. “A scenario in which foreign aircraft manufacturers are allowed back into our market does not appear realistic. In Russian culture, there is no trust for those who have betrayed us,” the statement read.
The company stressed that Boeing and Airbus “made their choice” by halting aircraft and spare parts deliveries to Russia following the war in Ukraine, and highlighted that this has created a serious trust issue for Russian aviation.
“The Goal: A Fully Independent Aviation Industry”
The statement clearly outlined Russia’s goals to strengthen its domestic aviation industry:
“The only desirable path for the domestic aviation sector is to operate fleets consisting of 100% Russian-made aircraft. We must work steadily to achieve this goal.”
A New Roadmap Amid Global Sanctions
After Western countries closed their airspace to Russian airlines due to the war in Ukraine, aircraft manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus suspended shipments to Russia. Rostec’s statement signals the beginning of a new roadmap aimed at achieving full independence in Russian air transport.
