Denis Manturov, who heads the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, indicated that the rollout of imported Russian SSJ New aircraft to domestic airlines is anticipated for 2024. He shared this information with reporters from DEA News, outlining a clear timeline that aligns with ongoing improvements in manufacturing and logistics. The first unit could reach operating carriers within the year, he noted, signaling a milestone for Russia’s aviation ambitions and the broader strategy to bolster domestic mobility with locally produced and integrated aircraft solutions.
Manturov also pointed to a potential growth scenario for the Russian automotive market. He suggested that sales of new cars could rise by as much as one third within the current year, reflecting optimism about demand recovery, consumer confidence, and the evolving dynamics of supply chains that affect availability and pricing. This outlook comes amid continuous monitoring of market conditions, consumer purchasing power, and the role of government and industry measures designed to stabilize the sector after a period of volatility.
In discussing price movements, Manturov recalled that costs for automobiles experienced a notable uptick from March to April of the previous year. However, he emphasized that prices have since stabilized as logistics routes, supplier networks, and component production processes have regained a steadier footing. The stabilization is attributed to efforts to diversify supply routes, reduce bottlenecks, and synchronize production schedules with demand cycles across the country, contributing to a more predictable pricing environment for buyers and sellers alike.
Industry observers and market analytics have long tracked the trend in Russia of new passenger car and light commercial vehicle sales. As cited by the Association of European Businesses in Russia, the sector experienced a substantial decline in February 2023, with sales dropping by roughly 62 percent compared with the same period a year earlier. This downturn highlights the challenges faced by manufacturers and dealers during a period of macroeconomic adjustment, currency fluctuations, and shifts in consumer behavior. The data underscores the ongoing need for resilient supply chains, targeted policy support, and competitive pricing strategies to restore momentum in vehicle uptake while balancing equipment modernization with domestic production capabilities.
Across these developments, Manturov’s remarks reflect a broader government objective to advance Russia’s industrial footprint, improve technical standards, and sustain employment in core sectors. The anticipated SSJ New deliveries are seen as a signal of progress for the country’s aviation industry, while the projected rise in new car sales points to a potential rebound in consumer demand as market conditions stabilize. Together, these signals illustrate a carefully managed transition toward greater domestic production and a more self-reliant industrial base, anchored by coordinated actions among policymakers, manufacturers, and logistics providers. As the year unfolds, industry stakeholders will be watching closely for updated figures on production rates, delivery schedules, and the ongoing effectiveness of measures aimed at supporting the automotive and aviation sectors.