Russia will begin its commercial supplies of Superjet 100 in mid-2010, said Russian Industry and Trade Minister Viktor Khristenko on Dec. 24.

"The first commercial supplies will begin in mid-2010, which will be followed by flights. We are hoping that the training of crew members for this machine will begin in the spring," Khristenko told the Rossiiskaya Gazeta newspaper.

The Sukhoi Superjet 100 mid-haul passenger airliner, designed to replace the antiquated Tu-134, is regarded as a key project of Russia's civil aviation industry.

Khristenko said the Russian aircraft industry has been less affected by the recession than other sectors, primarily thanks to state support.

"Last year 10 large long- and mid-haul planes and heavy regional planes were built in Russia. This year, another 16 planes will be built," he said.

Even more aircraft will be built next year due to the supply of Superjet 100, he said.

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has said the development of the aircraft industry and space exploration are Russia's priorities.

Photograph: The Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft.