Finance ministry continues funding for the production of Ural aircraft "Baikal"
The Russian Minister of Finance, Anton Siluanov, declared at a State Duma meeting that the necessary resources for supporting production and development are being allocated. According to TASS, the authorities are not sparing funds on the project.
Previously, Vice Premier Yury Trutnev stated that the project had been terminated, but this information was refuted by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. They clarified that the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) will continue work on the "Baikal" aircraft based on a contract from April 2025. This decision was made after testing, during which minor defects were discovered.
UAC began developing the "Baikal" aircraft in 2019, initially planning to start series production in 2024, with deliveries scheduled for 2025. However, deadlines have been shifted due to unspecified reasons.
In March 2025, UAC manufactured the first three aircraft, although the engines have yet to be domestically substituted.
A Chronicle of Six Years of Delays in the Creation of the "Baikal" Aircraft
Author: Elisaveta Mal'kova
Dating back to 2019, the "Baikal" aircraft project, specifically the LMS-901 model, was initiated as a replacement for the Soviet-era Antonov An-2. The aircraft was designed to carry nine passengers, with a cruising speed of up to 300 km/h and a maximum flight range of 3,000 km. Below is a chronology of events and production delays for the "Baikal" aircraft.
1. Inception and Objectives
Started by Baikal Engineering, a subsidiary of the Ural Civil Aviation Plant (UAC), the project aimed to fill a void left by the aging An-2 aircraft. The primary goal of the "Baikal" aircraft was to cater to regional flights while maintaining a competitive price of no more than 280 million rubles (approximately $3.48 million).
2. Hurdles and Uncertainties
Initially, serial production was expected to commence in 2026. However, as of May 2025, Deputy Prime Minister Yury Trutnev announced that the project faces an impasse and is no longer anticipated. The main cause for this situation stems from an increased demand for runway length for takeoff and landing, creating a significant obstacle for the project.
3. Future Strategies
Rather than continuing with the "Baikal" project, a proposal has emerged to upgrade existing An-2 aircraft. Although the project's production seems uncertain, the Ministry of Industry and Trade plans to continue research and development efforts. The emphasis may also shift toward other regional aircraft projects, many of which are also facing delays.
In conclusion, due to various challenges and uncertainties, the "Baikal" aircraft project appears to be in a limbo state. While production seems unlikely, efforts are being made to upgrade existing An-2 aircraft. The fate of the "Baikal" aircraft remains uncertain, with focus gradually shifting towards alternative regional aircraft solutions.
The Russian Ministry of Finance is employing resources for the continued development of the "Baikal" aircraft project, defying previous statements suggesting its termination. The news of government support arrives after disclosures of minor defects during testing, prompting UAC to reaffirm its commitment to the project.
On the other hand, industry analysts predict that the delays for the "Baikal" aircraft could impact the broader aerospace and finance industries, potentially causing financial strain on UAC and limiting economies of scale if it fails to enter production.
