Former Deputy Trade Minister joins leading Russian aerospace industry

United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), a major player in the Russian aerospace industry, has announced the appointment of former Deputy Minister of Trade Oleg Bocharov as Deputy Executive Director. In his new role, the newly elected official will be responsible for the company’s strategic development and management of civil aircraft production programs, as well as other key government initiatives. Bocharov, a graduate of the Moscow Aviation Institute and with eight years of ministerial service, brings with him a wealth of experience in formulating state policies for aircraft production. His appointment comes at a time when UAC is facing significant delays in its key civil programs, including the Yakovlev MC-21 and SJ-100. The delays have prompted the Ministry of Trade to lower its commercial aircraft production forecasts for the period up to 2030.

The difficulties encountered were compounded by supply restrictions imposed by international sanctions related to the conflict in Ukraine, forcing the company to focus its efforts on the development of variants with a greater content of domestic components, especially regarding engines. In parallel, United Engine –the supplier of engines for the MC-21 and SJ-100– is implementing a new IT platform for after-sales support of engines, including the Aviadvigatel PD-14 and PD-8 models.

According to the official note, the digital system, which has already successfully passed tests at companies such as Aviadvigatel, Perm Motors, Saturn and Klimov, will allow operators to access up-to-date technical documentation and monitor data throughout the entire life cycle of the engines. In addition, the platform will manage processes related to the Ilyushin Il-114-300 turboprop, powered by the Klimov TV7-117ST-01/02.

In statements at a press conference, UAC officials stressed that Bocharov's appointment is seen as a key element in addressing current challenges and reviving the competitiveness of the Russian aerospace industry. "Our ability to innovate and adapt to new market conditions, compounded by international constraints, is highly dependent on the experience and strategic vision of leaders like him", they said. With this management shakeup and the adoption of innovative technologies for monitoring and supporting engines, United Aircraft intends not only to overcome accumulated delays, but also to strengthen its commitment to self-sufficiency and production quality, which are key to reviving civil aircraft production in Russia.