Russian aerospace giant United Aircraft is setting the stage for the next evolution of its renowned Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft, with plans to develop a modernized commercial variant known as the Il-76TD-90A.

This new model is a significant upgrade of the Il-76TD, which has been a workhorse in the commercial transport sector. According to FlightGlobal, the upgraded variant is set to enter production before the end of the decade, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2028.

The Il-76TD-90A will be based on the military-focused Il-76MD-90A, which is already in production. This modernization comes at a crucial time, as over 100 Il-76TDs currently in operation are nearing the end of their service lives. These aircraft, originally manufactured in Tashkent, have served reliably for decades, and the new variant aims to continue this legacy with enhanced capabilities.

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United Aircraft’s managing director, Daniil Brenerman, expressed confidence that the upgraded Il-76TD-90A will attract significant interest from commercial carriers, particularly those needing a reliable and versatile cargo transport solution.

The aircraft’s development is underscored by the recent certification from Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency, Rosaviatsia, which issued a type certificate to Ilyushin covering the Il-76 modifications. This certification outlines the flight performance characteristics and operational limitations of the new variant, paving the way for its eventual deployment.

Beyond its traditional role, russia commercial aircraft the Il-76 has also been adapted for several unique and unexpected uses. One such adaptation is its role in firefighting. The Il-76TD and Il-76TD-90VD variants have been modified with a water-dispensing system and tanks capable of holding up to 42 tonnes of water or fire retardant. This upgrade has transformed the Il-76 into an effective tool for combating wildfires, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.

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Additionally, the Il-76 platform has been used for airborne early warning and control missions. The A-50 Mainstay, derived from the Il-76, is equipped with an extensive radar system mounted atop a rotating disc above the fuselage. This radar system provides long-range surveillance and command and control capabilities, making it invaluable for strategic defense and reconnaissance missions.