Yakovlev SJ-100: Russia’s Fully Domestic Regional Jet Takes Flight
The Yakovlev SJ-100 marks a significant milestone in Russia’s aviation industry, representing a fully domestically produced regional jet designed to reduce reliance on foreign components. Developed by Yakovlev, a subsidiary of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), the SJ-100 is an evolution of the Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100), incorporating extensive import substitution to enhance technological independence.
Key Specifications
- Passenger Capacity: Up to 103 passengers
- Range: Approximately 3,700 km
- Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 49,450 kg
- Engines: 2 × Aviadvigatel PD-8 turbofan engines
- Cruise Speed: Mach 0.78
- Takeoff Runway Requirement: 1,940 meters
- Landing Runway Requirement: 1,425 meters
Development and Import Substitution
Initiated in 2019 under the “SSJ-New” program, the SJ-100 project aimed to replace approximately 40 foreign systems with Russian-made alternatives. This includes critical components such as avionics, landing gear, auxiliary power units, and the PD-8 engines, developed by United Engine Corporation (UEC). The PD-8 is a two-spool turbofan engine with a thrust rating of 8 tonnes, designed to power the import-substituted SJ-100.
Maiden Flight and Testing
On April 23, 2025, the third prototype of the SJ-100, equipped with PD-8 engines and fully domestic systems, successfully completed its maiden flight in Komsomolsk-on-Amur. The 40-minute flight confirmed the stable operation of all onboard systems, including the new engines.
Earlier, on March 17, 2025, a prototype SJ-100 with PD-8 engines had its first flight, marking the commencement of the manufacturer’s development and proving trials under the power unit import substitution program.
Production and Delivery Timeline
The United Aircraft Corporation plans to complete certification tests for the SJ-100 by the end of 2025, with deliveries to airlines expected to begin in 2026. Currently, 11 serial-production airframes have been assembled and will be retrofitted with domestic systems following certification.
Strategic Significance
The SJ-100 is a cornerstone of Russia’s strategy to achieve self-sufficiency in civil aviation, especially in the face of international sanctions that have limited access to foreign technology. By replacing imported components with domestically produced alternatives, Russia aims to ensure the sustainability and growth of its aviation industry.
Visual Highlights
- First Flight of SJ-100 with PD-8 Engines: A significant milestone showcasing the aircraft’s capabilities with fully domestic systems.
- SJ-100 Prototype Arrives in Zhukovsky: The aircraft completed a program of factory finalization tests and arrived at the Gromov LII airfield for certification flight tests.
Watch the SJ-100 in Action
Experience the maiden flight of the SJ-100 with PD-8 engines:
The Yakovlev SJ-100 stands as a testament to Russia’s commitment to advancing its aerospace capabilities through domestic innovation and production. As the aircraft progresses through certification and enters service, it is poised to play a pivotal role in regional aviation.
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