Import substitution in Russia fails also in military aircraft projects

After many countries imposed sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, Moscow launched a broad import substitution program. The aim was to reduce dependence on foreign supplies and enable local manufacturers to replace imported goods. So far, however, the results have been largely disappointing.

In many sectors, import substitution has failed to deliver the expected outcomes. At best, Russian markets have seen Chinese-made products sold under Russian branding. This suggests that domestic industry has not managed to build an independent production chain and often merely relabels foreign goods.

Failures have also emerged in military aircraft projects. Russia's military aviation sector, like the rest of the economy, is struggling with sanctions-related restrictions, and the import substitution program has been unable to resolve the underlying technological dependencies.

Although some projects may continue, their development is hampered by a shortage of foreign components and limited access to modern technologies. The use of Chinese products under new names indicates a superficial adaptation rather than genuine replacement.

In summary, Russia's import substitution program has largely missed its targets, and this is particularly evident in military aviation, where the need for advanced technology is especially acute.