The Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) will cease operation of the world's largest turboprop aircraft, the An-22 "Antei," starting in 2024. This was announced by the commander of Military Transport Aviation (VTA), Lieutenant General Vladimir Benediktov.
We are located in Tver, where the 12th division is based. It is called the heaviest in the world because it is armed with An-124 "Ruslan" aircraft, which are the largest serially produced aircraft in the world. Before that, there were the legendary "Antei," which, unfortunately, we are ceasing operation of this year.
The Lieutenant General clarified that a total of 67 An-22 aircraft were produced during the project's existence.
The An-22 "Antei" is the largest turboprop and the world's first wide-body military transport aircraft. Its height is over 12.5 m, length is 57 m, and wingspan is 64.4 m. The maximum takeoff weight of the aircraft is 225 tons, and the payload is 60 tons.
When loaded with 40 tons, the aircraft is capable of flying a distance of over 5 thousand km, and with a full load - up to 3.1 thousand km.
Earlier, www1.ru reported that An-124 "Ruslan" aircraft will receive the most powerful Russian PD-35 engines. They will also be provided with new defense systems that will make the aircraft safer.
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