Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant

Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant (UUAZ, Улан-Удэнский авиационный завод, Ulan-Udėnskij aviacionný zavod) is a Russian joint-stock company specializing in aircraft manufacturing. It is based in Ulan-Ude, Buryatia.

History
The company was founded in 1939 for repair services of I-16 fighters and SB bombers. During World War II, it produced La-5 and La-7 fighter airplanes. In 1956, the factory stepped into the epoch of helicopter production. A considerable part of the factory's history is devoted to manufacture of the most selling Mi-8 helicopter, started in 1970. The factory has produced over 4000 Mi-8 helicopters altogether.

In 2008, the company was given the annual "Russia's best exporter of the year" award by Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Russian Federation.

Production
its main products include Mi-8Т, Mi-171, Мi-171Sh helicopters. The company also produces household items.

Ownership
Major shareholders in 2009:
 * OPK Oboronprom 75.09%
 * DCC 12.56%
 * Leader IPF Gasfund 5.25%
 * Other 7.10%

Awards
The plant was awarded the Order of the Red Banner of Labour.

The plant was awarded the gratitude of Russian President Vladimir Putin for his great contribution to the implementation of the state defense order.

The plant received the "Pride of the Fatherland" prize, which marked the Mi-171 helicopter in the "100 best goods of Russia" competition.

Famous employees

 * In 1949-1952 Viktor Yashin, a Soviet pilot and Hero of the Soviet Union, worked at the plant.
 * Until 1941 D. Zhanaev, Hero of the Soviet Union, worked at the factory.
 * In 1966-1967 the writer V. B. Garmaev worked as a locksmith.
 * The writer K. G. Karnyshev worked at the factory as a technician.
 * In 1998-2000 the position of Deputy General Director of the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant was held by Manturov Denis Valentinovich — since 2012, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation.