The state of electrical machinery construction, which is an important basis of Russia’s electrical industry, is assessed. The article places focus on the competitiveness and self-sufficiency of domestic electrical machinery construction industry, its enterprises and production volumes. The production of electrical machinery around the world and the organizational interaction of its main manufacturers are also considered. The state of science in the field of electrical machinery construction is analyzed, and achievements in improving the energy efficiency, specific power capacity, and reliability of electrical machines are shown. Prospects for the development of adjustable-frequency motors, as well as machines operating under extreme loads that are used in electric transmission systems of urban, railway, marine transport, agriculture, and mining industry are discussed. Promising issues in the field of research activities aimed at development of new electrical machines and drive systems are considered. In conclusion, information is provided on the state of production at the enterprises of the Ruselprom Concern, one of the largest manufacturers of a wide range of electrical machines. The article is written in the form of answers Dr. Sci. (Eng.) L.N. Makarov, General Designer of Ruselprom Concern gave to the questions of P.A. Butyrin, Corresponding Member of the RAS, Dr. Sci. (Eng.), Editor-in-Chief of the journal Elektrichestvo.