An-30A

The Antonov An‑30A is a specialized Soviet‑era aerial photography and cartography aircraft derived from the four‑engine transport An‑26. First flown in 1971, the An‑30 series entered service with the Soviet Air Force and civil mapping agencies, where it remained operational for several decades. Its distinctive glazed nose houses a suite of cameras, laser scanners and navigation aids that permit high‑resolution vertical and oblique imaging from altitudes up to 7 000 meters. The airframe retains the rugged, high‑lift wing and rear‑loading ramp of the An‑26, while structural reinforcements support the weight of the scientific equipment. Powered by two Ivchenko AI‑24 turboprop engines, the An‑30A delivers a maximum speed of 500 km/h and a range of roughly 1 200 km, enabling long‑duration survey missions over remote terrain. The aircraft’s ability to produce precise topographic maps contributed to infrastructure planning, resource exploration, and military reconnaissance throughout the Cold War and after the dissolution of the USSR. Today, surviving An‑30As serve as heritage platforms for aerial survey training, highlighting Antonov’s legacy of versatile, purpose‑built designs that bridged transport and specialized aviation roles. The type proved vital for Soviet regional development projects throughout the 1970s.

Antonov

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Design & Classification