Russia’s first deputy PM: Osvey aircraft prototype due in 2027, certification set for 2029

“Belarusian aviation industry enterprises are participating in the production of Russian aircraft and components, including painting in Minsk, for which good facilities have been provided,” the first deputy prime minister said.

He specifically mentioned the new Osvey aircraft project, in which Belarus is also involved. “We are moving according to the adjusted schedule. Next year we will have a prototype that will begin flight testing. We expect certification to be completed by the end of 2029, and the aircraft will receive a green light for operation on the Belarusian and Russian markets. We also plan to supply it to third countries,” Denis Manturov said.

The Russian first deputy prime minister noted that the list of joint projects and areas of cooperation between Belarus and Russia is very broad, covering many sectors. Importantly, the emphasis is on developing industrial cooperation. Last year, industrial products accounted for 65% of Belarusian-Russian trade. Overall, trade continues to grow while maintaining a balance between exports and imports.

“This is the result of systematic work. The personal involvement and engagement of the Belarusian head of state in every project and every area yields positive results. Understanding the essence of the issues and making timely management decisions,” Denis Manturov said.

He noted the intensification of cooperation in mechanical engineering in general and automotive manufacturing in particular. There are good prospects on the Russian market and steady demand for Belarusian BELGEE vehicles. The level of localization in the production of these cars is increasing, including with the participation of Russian companies, which deepens cross-border industrialization, Denis Manturov added.

He also mentioned cooperation with BelAZ: Russian mining enterprises regularly purchase equipment from this manufacturer. But it is not just trade that matters - Russian companies’ participation in manufacturing components and mechanisms for BelAZ vehicles is equally important, the first deputy prime minister said. For example, some types of engines are produced by Kolomna’s Transmashholding and Sinara Group.

“A new project with BelAZ is now on the agenda - developing specialized equipment for Nornickel, specifically mining machinery that is currently mostly of Western origin. We will use Belarusian technologies. This is good synergy,” Denis Manturov said.

In addition, cooperation in electronics and electronic engineering is also on the bilateral agenda.

“We will continue to develop all these areas with the same intensity,” the Russian first deputy prime minister added.