Cooperation could help plant diversify more into civilian production (376 words)

Published: 9/4/2001

According to Vitaly Zelenkov, spokesman for IAPO, the Irkutsk- based producer may participate in the production of the A-319 and A-320. This appears to be the first such discussion with production plants under the framework of the memorandum recently signed by EADS and RAKA. Zelenkov said that EADS and IAPO have conducted a number of discussions about possible cooperation and that EADS has visited IAPO in order to assess the plant's production capabilities and capacity. He added that, based on the outcome of that visit, EADS will clarify the parts and volume to be produced at IAPO. Zelenkov further confirmed that discussions also took place over the possibility of producing the ATR at IAPO, for both the Russian and export market, although such negotiations were in the very early stages. IAPO's enthusiasm for the development of international cooperation is in part driven by the plant's desire to reduce its dependence on military production - currently 80% of the factory's output - to a more acceptable level of 50%. Zelenkov, however, commented that while the management wishes to diversify in the long term, it sees no immediate risk to its military business. At present, IAPO's other civilian programmes include the Il-214, with AK Ilyushin, and Hindustan Aeronautic Ltd, currently in the process of being specified with its launch customers, the Russian and Indian air forces, as part of the overall planning and budgeting process. The aircraft is planned to be produced in military, cargo and passenger versions. According to Zelenkov, a new company may be created for the development of the Il-214 with the three participants becoming shareholders, although IAPO does not exclude the possibility that new partners may invest. Zelenkov also commented that IAPO was aware of the Samara regional administration's efforts to involve Aviakor in the plant's other civilian programme, the Be-200, but he believes that Aviakor will be unable to raise the funding. Zelenkov was not forthcoming on whether the facility could meet any increase in Be-200 demand, but did comment that any potential increase would be limited by a shortage of skilled staff in the event of an upturn and that the factory was capable of meeting current requirements.

Article ID: 2735