Moscow has long been recognized as a central hub for the aerospace industry, serving as a vital intersection for manufacturers, engineers, logistics experts, and government officials. Despite global shifts in the geopolitical landscape, the Russian capital’s trade show scene has not only persisted but has adapted, placing a heavy emphasis on technological sovereignty, import substitution, and the development of unmanned aviation systems.
For professionals in the sector, Moscow offers a unique ecosystem of events. From the sprawling international air shows in the surrounding region to specialized infrastructure salons within the city, these exhibitions provide a crucial barometer of the industry’s health and future direction.
The Flagship: MAKS Air Show
When discussing Russian aerospace events, the International Aviation and Space Salon (MAKS) remains the undisputed flagship. Unlike typical indoor exhibitions, MAKS takes place at the Gromov Flight Research Institute airfield in Zhukovsky, approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Moscow.
After a series of postponements and a shift to digital formats (eMASKS) in 2024 and 2025, the physical show is slated for a robust return. According to government decrees, MAKS is scheduled to be held in the summer (July–August) of both 2026 and 2027. Organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and Rostec, this venue is where visitors can witness static displays of civilian and military aircraft, helicopters, and space technology up close.
The event serves as the primary launchpad for new Russian aviation projects and is a key venue for scientific conferences and business negotiations regarding international cooperation within the Eurasian region.
The Core Business-to-Business Event: NAIS and DroneTech
While MAKS captures the public imagination, the National Aviation Infrastructure Salon (NAIS) , held annually in Moscow at the Crocus Expo International Exhibition Center, is the essential gathering for industry insiders. In 2026, NAIS set a record, attracting over 12,500 professionals and more than 200 companies from Russia, Belarus, and China.
NAIS focuses specifically on the “ground” side of aviation. The exhibition floor is packed with solutions for airport infrastructure, ground handling equipment, airfield runways, navigation systems, and passenger terminal technologies. It is a deal-making hub. For example, the 2026 event saw the signing of a significant agreement between S7 Airlines and the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) regarding the supply of 100 Tu-214 medium-haul aircraft.
A major development in recent years has been the integration of DroneTech into the NAIS framework. This specialized exhibition has quickly become the leading platform for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and autonomous robotics in Russia. At the 2026 event, DroneTech featured over 60 manufacturers demonstrating everything from delivery drones and agricultural surveyors to advanced FPV interceptors and electronic warfare countermeasures designed to protect critical infrastructure.
Specialized Sector Events
Beyond the large-scale salons, Moscow hosts several niche events catering to specific verticals of the aerospace industry.
HeliRussia is the premier international exhibition for the helicopter industry. Held in Moscow, it is the only event in Russia covering the entire spectrum of the industry, from design and production to maintenance and operation of rotorcraft. In 2026, the exhibition is scheduled for June at the Crocus Expo and also heavily features hybrid aircraft and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) related to rotorcraft technology -6.
For high-net-worth service providers and corporate flight departments, the Russian Business Aviation Exhibition (RUBAE) offers a more exclusive environment. Held at the Vnukovo-3 Business Aviation Center, this event focuses on private jets, executive travel solutions, aircraft financing, and maintenance services tailored to the VIP sector.
Additionally, the International Military-Technical Forum “Army” , while broader in scope, is a significant defense aerospace event. Held in Kubinka (near Moscow), it features a massive display of military aviation, air defense systems, and aerospace hardware, often overlapping with the themes of MAKS but with a distinct defense focus.
The Central Theme: Technological Sovereignty
Walking the floors of Moscow’s aerospace exhibitions in 2026, one theme is omnipresent: technological sovereignty.
With the departure of many Western OEMs and suppliers, Russian trade shows have pivoted to highlight domestic solutions. Plenary sessions at NAIS 2026 featured high-level discussions on “how a sovereign aviation model is being formed,” focusing on the import substitution of critical components and software.
Visitors will find a heavy emphasis on new Russian airframes, such as the MC-21, SSJ New (import-substituted Superjet), and the revival of the Tu-214, alongside entirely domestic engines like the PD-8 and PD-14. In the unmanned sector, Russian manufacturers are aggressively filling the void, showcasing “Made in Russia” drones and counter-drone systems that have been tested in real-world conditions.
Preparing for Your Visit
Attending a trade show in Moscow requires advance preparation.
- Registration: Unlike some open public events, professional days at MAKS and NAIS require industry credentials or paid accreditation. Registering weeks in advance is advisable to avoid on-site queues.
- Language: While international events may offer some translation, the primary language of business is Russian. Bringing an interpreter or a bilingual colleague is strongly recommended for meaningful networking.
- Logistics: Moscow has multiple venues. Crocus Expo is well-served by the Myakinino metro station on the Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya line. MAKS in Zhukovsky is further out and requires dedicated shuttle buses or taxis from the Otradnoye station.
Moscow’s aerospace trade shows offer an unfiltered view of a rapidly evolving industry. They are no longer just platforms for purchasing aircraft; they are strategic forums where the future of Russian aviation—from passenger jets to battlefield drones—is being defined. For those looking to understand the market, find partners, or witness the next generation of aerospace engineering, Moscow remains the essential destination.
