Ilyushin Il-20

The Ilyushin Il‑20 is a Soviet‑era electronic intelligence and reconnaissance aircraft derived from the tactical bomber Il‑18. First flown in 1962, the Il‑20 entered service with the Soviet Air Force in the mid‑1960s and later served the Russian Air Force and several allied nations. Built by the Ilyushin design bureau, the airframe retains the four‑engine, low‑wing layout of the Il‑18 but incorporates a distinctive nose radome, a ventral antenna fairing and multiple belly and wing pylons for signal‑collection equipment. Inside, the aircraft houses a suite of ELINT receivers, spectrum analyzers, and data‑recording stations that enable real‑time interception of radar, communications and electronic emissions across a broad frequency range. Its long‑range capability, cruising speed around 800 km/h and endurance of up to 11 hours make it suitable for deep‑penetration missions over hostile territory. The Il‑20 played a crucial role during the Cold War, providing valuable intelligence on NATO air defenses and electronic order of battle. Even after the dissolution of the USSR, modified Il‑20M variants continued to support Russian strategic reconnaissance, underscoring the type’s enduring contribution to modern electronic warfare and aviation history.

Ilyushin

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Design & Classification