Prototype Ilyushin 76-MD-90 Rolls Out

Uljanowsk (Jun 19th) - Russia's United Aircraft Corporation has completed assembly of the first Ilyushin Il-76-MD-90 at its factory in Uljanowsk. As the corporation claimed in a press release on Wednesday the plane is currently being painted in the colors of the Russian Air Force (VVS), which will be the first operator of the entirely modernized version of the iconic Il-76 ‘Candid’ heavy transport plane. In the process of the project the plane was as well referred to as Il-476.

 

Rolling Out - the Ilyushin Il-76-MD-90A 'Candid-D'

Avionics – including a state-of-the-art glass cockpit - were said to have already been installed. Still no details neither of the avionics outfit nor cockpit photos were available. The first fuel was said to have been filled into the wing tanks to check for any leaks. Ground and flight tests were expected to start as soon as the livery of the aircraft was in place. A date for the maiden flight was not yet disclosed.

How much is in it? Know one knows... Pics: UAC Press Service.

“The main phase of the production of the aircraft have been completed. We will be able to deliver the first sample to the Russian Armed Forces later this year,” said General Director of the Uljanovsk Aviation Plant Sergey Dementiev in the press text.

So far VVS has ordered 39 of the heavy transports to augment their shrinking capabilities in tactical air transport and to rebuild especially airborne capabilities. The D-30-KP2 engines are said to boost airlift capability and operational safety especially in harsh climates. Here as well no test data was to be found in public sources.

 AU/pvk