ISW: Russia expands combat aircraft production despite sanctions.

Russia is actively expanding its combat aviation production at the Kazan plant. According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) report, the construction of new facilities at the plant has been observed from mid-2024 to May 2025. They produce Tu-160M, Tu-160M2, Tu-22M3 aircraft and helicopters. In particular, according to analysts' quotes, Russia plans to release new Tu-214 aircraft according to a 'broad schedule' by 2028.

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

Unfortunately, despite the funding of 90 billion rubles for modernization, production at the plant continuously faces problems due to sanctions and a shortage of skilled workers. The plant is falling behind in meeting production plans. OAK Chairman Vadim Badyha intends to increase the plant's efficiency by 30% by 2030, but there are already forecasts of a possible decrease in the priority of aviation production in the future.

Summary

Russia is actively expanding its combat aviation production at the Kazan plant; however, it is facing difficulties in modernization due to sanctions and staffing issues. This may affect the achievement of planned goals in the development of Russia's aviation complex.