In particular, the Yakovlev is working on a contract to design an L15 training craft for China. "We have been involved in the job at each its stage, so we can say this is a lasting partnership. The first samples will go off the assembly line toward next year's end," Mr. Gurtovoi said to Novosti.
Talks are underway for China's Hungdu Co. to take part in R&D for another training plane, the Yak 152. The bureau has its brightest hope for MS 21 short- and medium-range craft, whose design is among top priorities in Russia's civil aviation. "We are anxious to get the project on an international footing, and so are active recruiting partners in other countries.
"Talks of several rounds are underway with the Chinese-based AVIC2 corporation, which is evaluating technical characteristics of the new aircraft. This is a very ambitious programme, and it certainly cannot be launched without a political resolution by the Chinese government," says Arkadi Gurtovoi.
The Yakovlev bureau hopes China will make a final decision within the next six months.
The bureau is an active and regular exhibitor at the biennial Airshow China.
