The Russian government has financially backed further development and research for the country’s Sukhoi Superjet SSJ100 as it protects the future of the aircraft from tightening US-imposed sanctions on other states.
It is believed that the Kremlin – the heart of the Russian government – is boosting the project by $51m, or 3.2bn roubles.
It is believed that the move from Russia comes amidst continuing sanctions on ‘rouge states’ such as Iran, who constitute one of the biggest customers of the aircraft.
There is also a plan to produce a freighter version of the aircraft in the future, the company has alluded to.
If the program is secured this would also affect production of the company’s business jet division.