ISW: Russia Expands Combat Aircraft Production Despite Sanctions

According to glavcom.ua: Russia is actively increasing its combat aviation production. According to a report from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), the development of the Kazan Aviation Plant indicates a growth in production. The Finnish publication Yle reports that from mid-2024 to May 2025, the plant has built or expanded five buildings covering almost 19,000 square meters, where Tu-160M, Tu-160M2, Tu-22M3 aircraft and helicopters are produced.

“OAK announced that Russia intends to produce four Tu-214 aircraft at the Kazan plant by 2025, seven by 2026, 17 by 2027, and 28 annually by 2028,” analysts said.

Despite funding of 90 billion rubles for modernization, the plant faces challenges due to sanctions and staff shortages. Currently, production is behind schedule. OAK head Vadim Badiha plans to increase efficiency by 30% by 2030, but ISW pointed out the potential for a decrease in aviation's priority in favor of other technologies.

Conclusion

Russia is actively expanding its combat aviation production at the Kazan plant, planning to produce new aircraft and helicopters by 2028. However, there are challenges in modernizing the plant due to sanctions and staffing issues, which may affect the achievement of planned goals in the development of Russia's aviation industry.