The cost of MS-21 program decreased from $5,48 billion (180 billion rubles) to $4,26 billion (140 billion roubles) by means of business plan optimization. It was declared by the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Yuri Slusar, at Farnborough International Airshow – 2012, Lenta.ru reports.

Slusar added that $395,95 million (13 billion rubles) intended for development of PD-14 engine will be attracted by means of bond placement under government guarantee.

MS-21 aircraft is the new Russian (not Soviet) advanced aircraft. It will replace Тu-154 liners. The jet will have the capacity of 150-230 seats and range up to 5000 km. The aircraft is being developed by Irkut Corporation, forming part of United Aircraft Corporation (UAC).

The MS-21’s maiden flight should be performed in 2015 by a prototype intended for transportation of 180 passengers. A total of six prototypes should be manufactured in the next three years.

The Ministry of Economic Development suggested in early July that the government should increase the costs for MS-21 project by $609,16 million (20 billion rubles). Generally, the federal state program for development of Russian aircraft industry until 2015 assumes a total financing of about $3,96 billion (130 billion rubles) in 2014-2015.