The Russian leader and corporate managers discussed military-technical cooperation with other countries, a long-term corporate development programme and the establishment of the Aviation Holding Company Sukhoi under a presidential decree.
Mr Putin stressed that the aircraft industry, which employs 550,000 workers in 300 companies, was a highly important element of the national economy and defence potential. Aircraft comprise 50% of the volume of national arms export, with the Sukhoi share being 45%. President Putin called this an impressive achievement and said the Russian leadership would continue to pay attention to military and civilian aviation.
Mr Putin congratulated Russian aircraft manufacturers on Aviation Day, celebrated on August 18.