Dmitry Evdokimov, researcher a member of the Gaidar Institute’s Quantitative Analysis of Economic Effects Department, commenting on this event for Vzglyad, noted that the SSJ-100 project gave an impetus to the revival of mechanical engineering and aerodynamic calculations, and set the task of restoring Russia’s status of a technological player on the world market.
"At the turn of the 2000s, Russian civil aviation had a strong scientific and design backlog, but needed updated equipment, training systems and access to the market. The SSJ-100 was the first major civilian project of the post-Soviet era, which gave an impetus to the revival of mechanical engineering, aerodynamic calculations, and systems engineering," emphasized Dmitry Evdokimov.
The expert also noted that the SSJ-100 project was originally designed to combine Russian competencies with the best world developments. "The SSJ-100 project was initially designed as a product that would unite Russia with the technological leaders of the industry, combining Russian competencies in aerodynamics and design with the world’s best developments — from engines to avionics. This allowed us to significantly accelerate the product launch and ensure compliance with international standards and airlines' expectations. This approach is also shared by major foreign aircraft manufacturers — the production of components for Boeing and Airbus is dispersed around the world," said Dmitry Evdokimov.
In addition, the expert pointed out the relevance of aircraft size. "The 85–100 seat size is now considered optimal for operation on low and medium density routes, especially in view of the transformation of the route network and the growth of operating costs. This is a global trend: the role of regional and regional aircraft has increased in the market, providing more flexible operation at moderate costs. Russia is fitting into this logic by offering its own product based on its domestic production base," said Dmitry Evdokimov.