Military transport fleet of the Russian Air Force will undergo significant changes aimed at aircraft modernization  in the coming years, according to Col. Gen. Alexander Zelin.

Currently, Russia’s fleet of transport planes consists of AN-124 and AN-22 long-range transport aircrafts, IL-76MD heavy planes, AN-12 medium airplanes, and AN-26 light crafts. As part of the changes, the Air Force intends to decommission three of the models: AN-12, AN-22, and AN-26. Long-range and heavy-weight fleets will also see some additions and upgrades.

In the next ten years, the Russian Air Force will complete a “fundamental” restructuring of its transport fleet. Many of the crafts will be replaced with newer models, while other planes will go through significant modernization.

The AN-124 aircraft, in particular, is considered to be one of the hallmarks of Russian aviation, and its capabilities of lifting weapons and military hardware of all classes are unparalleled. Still, the craft’s equipment could use a technical upgrade.

IL-76MD airplanes can similarly be retrofitted to reflect advances in modern technology. Moreover, the aircraft plant in the city of Ulyanovsk will begin manufacturing a completely modernized model of the craft with a designation of IL-76MD-90A. The plane’s second version will be equipped with better engines, as well as a system for dropping supplies with greater accuracy. The Air Force has placed orders for 40 airplanes of this class. The first craft will be released in 2010.     

The light military transport craft Ilyushin IL-112V will be ready in some two years, military officials said. The new plane, unlike its forerunner AN-26, will have added capabilities to transport and drop off a wider range of weapons systems. The plane will also be more economical. The first IL-112V will be ready in 2011. Construction of the aircrafts will start next year. Altogether, the Russian Air Force will purchase 70 planes of that type. Additional orders from the Air Force and other departments of the Russian Army are possible.

Indian aviation experts are working in conjunction with their Russian counterparts in devising a new mid-weight transport plane to replace the ageing AN-12. The new craft should be capable of airlifting troops, supplies, combat infantry vehicles, such as BMP-3, and airborne combat vehicles, like BMD-3. The aircraft is also going to feature a mechanism for conserving fuel that would be considered acceptable under international agreements.