The Soal aircraft plant in Nijni
Navgarad has a rich history that dates
back to its establishment in 1932.
For over nine decades, aviation plant
number 21, which was originally named
after Sergo Orzonei has been one of
Russia's leading aerospace enterprises.
The facility's construction began in
1929 and concluded in just 21 months.
The I-5 biplane fighter was the starting
point for aircraft production.
Production then progressed to the
renowned I-16 MiG fighters and other
notable aircraft including the LA 5 and
the 7 during World War II. Throughout
its history, SoCal has manufactured more
than 43,000 aircraft with approximately
13,500 of them being combat aircraft.
Most of these are from the MIG family
including the MIG 21, MIG 25 and MIG31.
So is a critical component of Russia's
aerospace sector and has consistently
implemented technological innovations
such as incorporating titanium and high
strength steel into aircraft structures.
The Soal aircraft plant faced major
challenges after the end of the cold
war.
Global geopolitical shifts caused a
significant reduction in orders for
frontline combat aircraft. To secure new
revenue beyond military contracts, Soal
implemented a diversification strategy.
This included gradually expanding into
civil aviation projects such as
supporting regional and commercial
aviation markets and producing
components for civilian aircraft.
Soal expanded its production of
assemblies for civilian aircraft
including the Illusian IL114 regional
turborop and the MC21 mediumh hall
airliner. It used its expertise in
aerospace engineering, precision
manufacturing and advanced materials.
This expansion stabilized the plant's
economy and positioned it as a
contributor to Russia's efforts to
modernize its civil aviation fleet.
It also reduced reliance on foreign
suppliers.
So's competitiveness is evident in its
investment in automated assembly lines
and 3D printing casting centers.
Beyond aviation, SOAL explored
opportunities in consumer and industrial
products. It leveraged its expertise to
create precision engineered products for
various sectors. Despite
diversification, the plant preserved its
core strength in fighter aircraft
production.
It continues to manufacture modern
versions of MIG fighters such as the
advanced MIG 35 multi-roll jet. This
combines its historical legacy with
modern aerospace innovation.
So's dual focus maintains its strategic
significance in national defense while
adapting to changing market demands.
This balanced approach ensures the plant
remains a key part of Russian aerospace
manufacturing.
It supports both military and civilian
aviation progress. The postcold war
changes shaped Soal's future by keeping
it viable and advancing technologies
needed for programs such as the Illusian
IL14-300
and the MC21.
The Illusian IL114-300
is a modernized version of the original
IL114 turborop.
It is intended for regional roads with
improved fuel efficiency, modern
avionics, and stronger performance.
This aircraft is designed to replace
aging regional fleets in Russia and
abroad. It features state-of-the-art
systems, an efficient power plant, and
enhanced cabin comfort that meets modern
standards.
So plays a central role in the serial
production of the Illusian IL114-300.
The facility is expanding with 12 new
production sites dedicated to IL114-300
assemblies and MC21310
parts. It has established a new
competence center for casting production
with advanced furnaces, heat treatment
facilities, and 3D printers.
This center supports the scale up of the
EL114-300,
the MC21, and the 2214.
So is also installing Russia's first
automated riveting complex to improve
quality and speed while reducing
reliance on foreign technology.
Currently, two is 1114-300
prototypes are undergoing certification
tests. They have already completed more
than 120 flights in the first half of
2025.
Certification is expected in December
2025 with serial deliveries starting in
spring 2026.
In summary, SOAL is responsible for
every stage of the Illusian IL14-300
program. This includes advanced
facilities, new production technologies,
and support for testing and
certification.
It reflects Soal's broader role as a
historic aerospace leader that adapts to
modern civil aviation while ensuring
Russia's independence in aircraft
manufacturing.
The Illusian IL114-300
is central to these efforts, marking a
new era in regional aviation fueled by
innovative Russian manufacturing.
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