Russia's Antonov An‑124: From 25 Years of Neglect to Strategic Comeback
The decision to repair the An-124 comes in response to numerous losses in the transport aircraft fleet. The aircraft, set to be returned to service, has been stored at the Seshcha air base in the Bryansk region for almost 25 years. This indicates that the plane requires extensive work. The renovation project will focus on the technical aspects to ensure the aircraft's flight readiness and potential upgrades to enhance its "future operational role and applications in a military and commercial context."
Army Recognition recalls that the Antonov An-124, designated for refurbishment, had been parked at the airport for over two decades (24 years) without making any flights. Throughout this time, the aircraft was exposed to harsh weather conditions, the effects of which will now have to be counteracted by Aviastar engineers.
Revising the aircraft is crucial for the Russian Federation due to its significant payload capacity. Thanks to this kind of aircraft, the Russians can address many logistical challenges, including the swift transport of fuel, ammunition, and parts necessary to maintain military equipment.
A giant with enormous payload capacity
Its dimensions are almost 70 metres in length, 21 metres in height, and over 73 metres in wingspan. This is more than twice the size of the popular Boeing 737-800 passenger, whose wingspan is about 35 metres. The An-124 can carry a payload of up to 150 tonnes. To facilitate the loading and unloading process, the manufacturers included a crane within the aircraft that can transport up to 30 tonnes of cargo.
The large dimensions do not compromise the efficiency of Antonov's powerful engines. There are four Progress D-18T units in total, paired in twos. Each engine generates a thrust of 23,400 kg. Thanks to this power, the aircraft can reach a top speed of 865 km/h and cover a distance of over 11,000 km (with full fuel tanks holding approximately 260,000 litres) in a single flight. The Antonov An-124's design also allows it to land on uneven terrain, thanks to a special landing gear adapted for runways with poor surfaces.
