Europe is looking for a long-term solution to strategic airlift: an ESOCA study proposed considering deep modernization of existing An-124-100s or developing a new European aircraft. As part of the project, specialists examined options for the development of strategic air transport and identified two solutions — deep modernization of the existing fleet or the creation of a new European aircraft, Aero Time reports.

Currently, European countries use An-124s under the SALIS program, but the fleet is aging. Previously, Airbus used the BelugaST as a temporary option for transporting oversized cargo, but its payload capacity of about 40 tons was significantly inferior to the An-124's capabilities. In January 2025, Airbus closed the Beluga Transport division due to a lack of external customers. 

According to open data, a total of 56 Ruslans were built. The current number of flying aircraft changes regularly: some aircraft are withdrawn from service, others return after repair.