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| Antonov An-124 Condor |
Militarymedia.net - The Antonov An-124 Ruslan (NATO designation Condor) is named after the legendary giant. Generally similar to the slightly smaller Lockheed C-5 Galaxy. Currently the An-124 is the largest production military aircraft in the world. Only the one-time An-225 is bigger. Development of this long-range heavy transport aircraft began in 1971. It was intended to replace the turboprop-powered An-22 Antei. This airlifter made its maiden flight in 1982 and entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1987. With its introduction the An-124 has set a number of world records. A total of 54 Antonov An-124 Ruslan aircraft were delivered at the end of 1995. Currently more than 40 are in service. Most of these aircraft are used commercially and only a small number are assigned directly to the air transport branch of the Russian air force. However there is a provision for many civilian aircraft to be called into military service if necessary. Russia remains Ruslan's sole military operator. The commercial An-124 aircraft was widely used to carry military cargo during NATO operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Recently a number of improved versions of the An-124 have been proposed. Production of this aircraft was discontinued in the early 90s with the collapse of the Soviet Union, but may resume if there are new orders.
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| Antonov An-124 Condor |
The An-124 has a 25% more payload capacity than the Galaxy C-5. It accommodates 88 passengers on the upper deck. The aircraft can carry an additional 350 passengers in the cargo hold. This passenger sits on a pallet seating system. The cargo hold of this strategic airlifter can carry almost any load, including almost all Russian armored fighting vehicles, helicopters and other large cargo. The cargo hold has titanium flooring. The nose of the plane is folded up. The aircraft can kneel in a nose down position to facilitate loading and unloading operations. There is also a large loading door at the back. There is a crane on board the 30 tonne boat. Items up to 120 tons can be towed onto the plane. The maximum payload capacity of this aircraft is 150 t.
