The head of the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations, Alexander Kurenkov, announced China's intention to purchase two Il-76 aircraft with water-dropping devices from Russia for firefighting.
«The Chinese side is interested in purchasing two Il-76 aircraft with water-dropping devices,» said the minister.
«Their main proposals to the Russian side are to train crews in the use of water-dropping devices. Russian practice is of great interest to colleagues in the fight against forest fires. This is very much in demand, and not only China but also Turkey is interested in it,» he added.
The Il-76 has two modifications for firefighting: the Il-76MDP, capable of taking 42 tons of fire extinguishing liquid, and the Il-76P, capable of taking 32 tons of fire extinguishing liquid on board. Apparently, a more modern Il-76MDP will be delivered to China.