SJ-100's Mile-High Leap
Russian SJ-100 airplane completes inaugural flight.
The SJ-100, Russia's homegrown version of the Sukhoi Superjet 100, has taken a giant leap forward in its journey to independence. Here's the scoop on its recent flight and future plans.
Flight with PD-8 Engine 🛫
On March 17, 2025, a SJ-100 prototype blasted off, sporting the PD-8 engine for the first time. This landmark event marked the commencement of development and testing under the import substitution program—a mission to replace foreign components with domestically produced ones.
Third Prototype's Maiden Voyage 🚀
On April 23, 2025, MSN97003, the third prototype, embarked on its inaugural flight. Equipped with all-domestic systems, this bird is the closest yet to the final production model.
Domestic Systems and PD-8 Engine 🛠️
- Import Substitution swap: Approximately 40 systems within the SJ-100, such as engines, avionics, and landing gear, will be replaced with Russian-made wonders.
- PD-8 Engine 🏭: This homegrown engine, designed to boost the aircraft's technological freedom, is crafted using new Russian materials and cutting-edge technology.
Upcoming Plans 📅
- Certification and Delivery
The SJ-100's progress in the realm of space-and-astronomy meets technology is evident as it transitions its engines from foreign to domestic, with the PD-8 engine advancing its development through the import substitution program. The third prototype, MSN97003, equipped with all-domestic systems, signifies a significant step toward the final production model boasting science and technology made in Russia.
