Smart move by Ilyushin with benefits to DoD.
EADS can no longer play the sole source contract card. I see this as yet another blow to EADS. Further, Europe's argument of restrictive US procurement practices runs hollow when even Russia can compete.
Politically, it sends a signal just how far detente between US and Russia has come. From commie enemy to potential supplier.
Even if the Il-96 has zero chance of success of getting the contract, DoD could reciprocate or be forced to acknowledge/validate certain features that could affect other comps eg in India/China where image matters. The prestige of even able to compete in this project already boosts the image of the company. Its a sign of growing confidence in Russia of its own product's international marketability.
At the same time, the russkis can have a direct first hand experience with a procurement process that they don't need to spy upon and possibly adopt best practices within Russia.
btw, doesn't one of the models of the Il-96 operate with PW engines?
The expected Boeing win will go down well with the populace as "beating" the commies, yet another time (on US soil), whilst politically, the russkis can argue that they're good enough to take the battle to US home ground. Win-win.
