The new Sino-Russo aircraft project, led by UAC (Russia) and COMAC (China), may have the participation of an important Italian company, Leonardo.
Italian Leonardo entered the competition to supply the main structures for the CR929. Leonardo currently has good experience in this sector, manufacturing structures in composite materials for the Boeing 787, competitor of the CRAIC CR929.
The information was shared by Leonardo's general manager, Lucio Valerio Cioffi, during a presentation of the year's results.
According to Cioffi, there is interest in Leonardo's participation by the Russians and Chinese due to the company's experience in this sector, despite Russia manufacturing the MC-21 in composite materials, as well as China also producing the C919 with this material.
“Negotiations are underway to define Leonardo's participation as the main supplier in the development, manufacture and assembly program of aerostructures for the CR929″, Cioffi said.
Leonardo already has a long-term relationship with the Russians, being a shareholder for some years from Sukhoi Civil Aircraft.
Parts manufacturing for the first prototype is due to start this year, ahead of a first flight planned for 2023. Entry into service is scheduled for the second half of this decade.
According to COMAC, there is a demand for 10 new widebody aircraft by 2045, with the CR929 alone expected to for 1000 new aircraft. That is, 10% of the market.
