Russia has for the first time brought the PD-8 aircraft engine to an international industrial exhibition, but behind the demonstration of the new power plant lies the problem of Russian civil aviation equipment entering foreign markets. Expert Vladimir Popov believes that India can become a platform for the PD-8 through which the engine will gain international recognition and new opportunities for promotion.

The full-size PD-8, 3.6 meters long, became the main aviation exhibit of the Russian exposition at the first INNOPROM. India exhibition in New Delhi. The engine has already passed a series of tests, confirmed its stated characteristics, received a type certificate, and is being mass-produced. 

The paradox is that the ready-made Russian certificate was not enough for the full promotion of the PD-8 abroad. As aviation expert Vladimir Popov noted, civil aircraft engines undergo strict international certification according to requirements for efficiency, environmental friendliness, noise, and safety. Sanctions limit the access of Russian products to foreign markets, so India is becoming one of the most important directions for the further promotion of the PD-8.

The situation is already moving from exhibition demonstration to a practical stage. The head of Rosaviatsiya, Dmitry Yadrov, announced on September 10 that certification of the PD-8, as well as SJ-100 and Il-114-300 aircraft, is planned to begin in India in the near future.

The PD-8 was created for the import-substituted Superjet 100 and the Be-200 amphibious aircraft. For Russia, Indian certification is important not only as an admission for a specific engine: it can open the way for the promotion of domestic civil aircraft and the expansion of industrial cooperation with one of the largest aviation powers.