Putin Urges Aerospace Industry to Advance Rocket Engines and Aviation Projects
President Vladimir Putin has called on Russia’s aerospace industry to accelerate the development of booster rocket engines and strengthen the country’s position in global space technology. Speaking in Samara during a visit to the Kuznetsov aircraft engine manufacturing plant, Putin emphasised the need to renew production capacity while remaining competitive in world markets.
Quoting Russian news agencies, Putin said it was crucial not only to meet Russia’s current and future needs but also to ensure success internationally. He stressed that Russia remained a major force in aerospace development, with a legacy of technological achievements in space exploration.
Sanctions Drive Push for Innovation
Putin highlighted Russia’s progress in designing new engines, particularly in the energy sector, despite Western sanctions imposed after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. According to him, Russia had managed to create innovative energy engines within a short timeframe. These technologies are now being applied to gas transport infrastructure, which he described as critical for the country’s future.
He specifically linked these innovations to the planned Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, a proposed project to deliver Russian gas to China. Moscow sees the pipeline as increasingly important after Europe moved to cut its reliance on Russian energy supplies. Putin praised the project as mutually beneficial for both Russia and China.
Aircraft Engine Development for Civil and Military Use
Alongside rocket engine progress, Putin also underlined the significance of advancing aircraft engine technology. He cited the PD-26 aircraft engine project, which he said would help modernise Russia’s military transport fleet while also supporting the creation of wide-bodied passenger aircraft.
According to Putin, this dual-use technology would not only boost defence capabilities but also expand opportunities in civil aviation, offering Russia a stronger foothold in the international aviation market.
with inputs from Reuters
