Beriev and the Irkutsk Aviation Production Association (IAPO) have reached agreement to move production of the new Be-200 twin jet amphibious fire fighter from IAPO to Tavia, the Taganrog Avia factory located alongside the design bureau's offices.
The decision to move the production line is due to IAPO's commitment to produce Sukhoi Su-30 fighters for export customers including China and India. It has also been "disappointed" with the slow return on its investment in the Be-200. Beriev says the move will slow first deliveries of the aircraft - originally expected by October - to Russia's ministry of emergency situations, which has ordered seven.
Beriev sources say Tavia's experience with corrosion treatment of amphibious aircraft will benefit the Be-200 programme. Beriev has agreed with Rolls-Royce to offer the BR715 on export Be-200s.
Source: Flight International
