Minister says Russia to produce light electric jets in 2024

VLADIVOSTOK, Sep 3 (PRIME) -- Russia plans to produce an experimental light multi-purpose plane Baikal with electric engines in 2024 and to start serial manufacturing after 2026, Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov told PRIME in an interview on the Eastern Economic Forum on Friday.

"I think it can fly as an experimental aircraft in 2024. As regard serial production, it will happen after 2026–2027," Manturov said.

Passenger aircraft Yak-40, already presented in the electric version, can be created with an engine running on hydrogen in the long term, Manturov said.

Manturov said that Russia would produce Checkmate fighter jets at its own expense, while foreign financing can still be attracted for a two-seat fighter aircraft of the model.

According to the official, the SSJ100 jets could potentially be produced in the style of the Aurus brand quite soon.

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