The Il-212 transport aircraft, equipped with turbojet propulsion, is set to supplant the An-26 and An-72 in service with Russia’s Aerospace Forces, according to RIA News citing sources within the military-industrial complex.
Plans describe the Il-112V as undergoing a substantial redesign, receiving a new designation – Il-212. The majority of its avionics and the overall fuselage will be retained from the earlier model, while the propulsion will shift from TV-117S turboprops to PD-8 turbojet engines. In tandem, the wings and landing gear will be redesigned, and the aircraft will incorporate updated fuel and hydraulic systems to support the new powerplant configuration.
A notable feature of the updated design is the engine placement above the wing, echoing the layout of the An-72. This configuration is intended to improve climb performance and, crucially, enable operation from unprepared runways and unpaved airstrips, expanding the operational versatility of the new aircraft.
The Russian defense ministry has previously addressed the goal of advancing light transport capabilities, signaling a clear priority to modernize this segment of the fleet. Reports indicate ongoing consideration of how best to balance performance, maintenance, and resilience in diverse operating environments.
Earlier coverage also noted encounters with birds affecting aircraft, prompting ongoing attention to risks during takeoff and landing phases and the implications for design choices and airfield operations.