Putin, Erdogan open major air show in Russia

Russia showcased to Turkey its fifth generation Su-57 fighter jet, two advanced helicopters and other latest aircraft as Presidents of the two countries opened a major air show here on Tuesday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited the event at Zhukovasky near Moscow which featured Su-57 and Su-35 fighter jets, Ka-62 medium helicopter and Mi-38 heavy utility helicopter and other latest aircraft.

Putin updated Erdogan about the basic specifications of amphibious aircraft Be-200. The two leaders also examined cockpit and cabin of the passenger airplane MC-21.

They also inspected Russian aircraft, including medium range MC-21-300 prototype - first mass-produced Mi-38 helicopter with a luxury cabin and Su-57 fighter jet.

During his speech at the opening ceremony, Putin said the air show offered opportunities for foreign partners including Turkey for mutually beneficial cooperation.

"We appreciate international interest in the Russian aviation and space salon, which we see as recognition of Russia's huge intellectual, research, technological and export potential, as well as its unique aircraft manufacturing traditions, which make Russia a leader in the global aerospace industry," an official statement quoted Putin as saying.

Putin said the MAKS air show was gaining recognition as a respected platform for business exchanges, idea-sharing and signing mutually beneficial contracts.

Leading aviation enterprises from around the world will showcase their products at the air show from August 27 to September 1.

An exhibition of the Soviet-era aircraft has also been held at the venue. Some of the aircraft were found on the battlefields of the World War II. They were restored, enabling them to fly again.

Putin underlined the importance of broad international cooperation for aircraft industry and highlighted key aerospace cooperation of China, a partner of this year's air show.

The President noted that new developments for unmanned systems for small and business aviation and breakthrough projects in civil aviation industry - like MC-21 aircraft and Mi-38 and Ka-62 helicopters - were some of the innovations presented at the air show.