4.5 billion rubles were allocated for improving the characteristics of SSJ 100 aircraft, the Ministry of Industry and Trade announced, and Dmitry Dyakonov, chief designer of KB-602, explained why such work might be needed on an already "old" model.
According to him, although the first-generation "Superjet" is no longer produced, the modifications can solve an important applied problem. The engineer suggested that the funds would be used to test new Russian systems – for example, lithium batteries – on existing aircraft. This would allow testing technologies without launching a separate budget program.
Sometimes a specific task arises for which it is difficult to secure funding, but the necessary funds can be allocated under the pretext of implementing a larger program.
The expert added that for the real development of the industry, systemic work is more important than one-time injections: training engineers, loading production facilities, and clear distribution of responsibilities. With this approach, even targeted projects based on outdated platforms can bring benefits – both technological and personnel-related.
The day before, Honored Pilot of the USSR Oleg Smirnov stated that the Superjet 100 retains potential for further development, but the aircraft will have to go through a stage of technical renewal and adaptation to new operating conditions. The aviation expert emphasized that initial difficulties and problems of new aircraft models are considered an inevitable part of their development.