Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has entered into a partnership with Russia's United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) to manufacture the SJ-100 regional aircraft in India. This agreement, signed in Moscow, is part of India's broader ambition to develop its commercial aircraft manufacturing sector. The global aviation industry is currently facing a shortage of aircraft, creating a potential opportunity for new entrants. However, the deal raises questions about the specifics of production and market viability, as the SJ-100 is not currently operated by any Indian airline. Industry experts express skepticism about the aircraft's appeal due to its past reliability issues and the competitive landscape dominated by established players like Embraer and Airbus. While the partnership signals India's intent to enter civil aerospace manufacturing, significant challenges remain, including securing airline commitments and establishing necessary support infrastructure.