Aviation

Russia Proposes Joint Production of IL-76 Aircraft in India, Boosting ‘Make in India’ Initiative.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is on the lookout for next-generation Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) to bolster its capabilities in transporting troops and military equipment to remote areas, particularly in the challenging mountainous border regions adjoining Pakistan and China.

In response, Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has proposed the manufacture of its advanced IL-76MD-90A transport aircraft in India.

Veterans of the Indian military have voiced strong support for Russia’s defense hardware. Lt. Colonel J.S. Sodhi (Retired) commended Russian transport aircraft for their reliability and performance. He highlighted the significant role that aircraft like the IL-76 and AN-32 have played in maintaining the operational effectiveness of the Indian Air Force over the years.

The IL-76MD-90A is a notable upgrade from the IL-76TD, an established workhorse in commercial transport. According to report, this modernized version is slated to enter production by the end of the decade, with initial deliveries expected in 2028. The IL-76TD-90A will draw from the military-focused IL-76MD-90A, which is already being produced.

This new model represents a crucial advancement as the existing fleet of over 100 IL-76TDs approaches the end of its service life. Originally built in Tashkent, these aircraft have proven their reliability over decades, and the IL-76TD-90A aims to extend this legacy with enhanced capabilities.

Beyond its traditional transport role, the IL-76 has also been adapted for various unique uses. Notably, the IL-76TD and IL-76TD-90VD variants have been modified for firefighting, equipped with water-dispensing systems and tanks that can hold up to 42 tonnes of water or fire retardant.

This adaptation has made the IL-76 an effective tool for combating wildfires, especially in difficult-to-reach areas. Additionally, the platform has been utilized for airborne early warning and control missions, demonstrating its versatility and adaptability. 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.

Aviation

Did you know ? Once Boeing 747 carried 1088 passenger in 1991

In 1991, during Operation Solomon, Israel aimed to airlift 14,000 people from Ethiopia within 36 hours. The effort was intense, with a strong focus on evacuating as many individuals as possible from the country.

At the forefront of this operation was the Boeing 747, known as the “Queen of the Skies,” which transported nearly 1,088 passengers.

Due to the urgent circumstances, all passengers were seated on the aircraft floor, despite the Boeing’s typical maximum capacity being around 660 passengers as per manufacturer specifications.

The aircraft was granted special approval to take off under these exceptional conditions.

Amid political tensions and military reforms in Ethiopia, the Ethiopian government requested the Jewish community to leave the country, providing them with a limited window for evacuation. In response, the community organized an airlift to facilitate their safe departure.

A fleet of 35 Israeli aircraft, including C-130s from the Israeli Air Force and El Al Boeing 747s, was deployed for the mission. These aircraft flew non-stop, successfully transporting most of the Ethiopian Jewish community to Israel in one of the largest airlift operations in history.