Denis Manturov, who serves as Deputy Prime Minister and leads the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, traveled as a passenger aboard the newest MS-21 aircraft. The visit took place in Ulyanovsk, following initiatives from the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI) and the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC). The trip was organized with the participation of key industry leaders and executives, marking a notable moment in Russia’s advancing aviation program.
Documents from the Cabinet confirmed that Manturov was accompanied by Yuri Slyusar, the General Manager of PJSC UAC, and Jan Burg, the General Manager of Rossiya Airlines. The delegation traveled to Ulyanovsk aboard the airline’s latest MS-21 aircraft, a symbol of Russia’s continued push toward modern, domestic aviation capabilities. The event underscored the collaboration among major industry players in enabling the MS-21 program and related projects.
During his visit, Manturov toured the PJSC Il Aviation facility at Aviastar and inspected ongoing production lines. His program included a stop at TsAGI, where he reviewed a test stand and a prototype related to the composite wing caisson of a promising wide-body long-range aircraft project designated SHFDMS. The inspection provided a closer look at the structural innovations being developed for future long-haul aircraft expectations. In addition, Manturov received up-to-date information regarding the life testing schedules for the MS-21 and the SSJ-New aircraft, signaling milestones in durability and reliability assessments for these fleets.
Historically, officials have remarked that serial production of the MS-21 powered by domestic engines is projected to commence in 2025. The December period had already seen significant steps forward: a number of static tests were completed, marking progress in the airframe verification process and aligning with broader program goals. Such developments reflect the ongoing commitment to expanding Russia’s aviation manufacturing capabilities and to advancing the MS-21 program as a core component of the country’s aerospace strategy.
Overall, the visit highlights the close coordination among government leadership, manufacturing facilities, and research institutions in advancing Russia’s aviation ambitions. The MS-21 program, together with related efforts like the SSJ-New upgrade, illustrates a concerted effort to integrate domestic engineering talents with cutting-edge testing regimes. The collaboration remains a central feature of the industry’s roadmap, aiming to deliver reliable, efficient aircraft to both domestic and international markets. The events in Ulyanovsk and the surrounding facilities demonstrate a sustained focus on innovation, quality assurance, and production readiness for the next generation of Russian aircraft, reflecting broader national priorities in aerospace resilience and technological sovereignty (attribution: Cabinet briefing).