Aviastar is building the first prototype aerial refueling variant of the upgraded Ilyushin IL-76MD-90A airlifter. The aircraft designa...
Aviastar is building the first prototype aerial refueling variant of the upgraded Ilyushin IL-76MD-90A airlifter.
The aircraft designated IL-76M-90A, is in final assembly at its Ulyanovsk plant, Russia. The aircraft will be the first tanker built in Russia, as earlier IL-78s were built at the Tashkent aircraft plant in Uzbekistan.
The prototype will be used to demonstrate its improved capabilities to clinch order from Russian Defense Ministry. Aviastar forecasts need for 30 of the type for Russian Air force.
The multi role aircraft could also re-configured for troop transport and fire fighting missions if required.
The tanker will have two additional fuel tanks in the cargo compartment, with three refueling ports, two on the wing and one in the rear fuselage.
IL-76MD-90A is a heavily upgraded version of the well-reputed Il-76MD airlifter which first flew in 1971, featuring modern wing, avionics, landing gear and aircraft systems.. It can carry an increased cargo of up to 60 tons to longer distances with better fuel economy.
It is powered by four new Aviadvigatel PS-90A-76 high bypass turbofan engines, providing an 12-14 percent lower fuel consumption than the D-30KP turbofan, and allows the aircraft to conform to the modern ICAO requirements.
IL-76 based refueling tankers designated IL-78, are operated by Russia, Ukraine, India, China and Pakistan.
