M-18 Dromader

The PZL‑Mielec M‑18 Dromader is a single‑engine, low‑wing agricultural aircraft that first flew in 1972 and entered series production the following year. Designed by the Polish aerospace company PZL‑Mielec, the Dromader was created to meet the growing demand for efficient crop‑dusting and firefighting machines in both domestic and export markets. Over 2,600 units were built, serving operators in more than 30 countries, making it one of the most widely used agricultural planes of the Cold‑War era.

Key features include a robust steel‑tube fuselage, a high‑strength aluminum wing with interchangeable spray bars, and a powerful radial engine—originally the Soviet Vedeneyev M14P delivering 260 kW (350 hp). The aircraft’s simple, rugged design allows operation from short, unprepared strips, while its large fuel capacity provides up to twelve hours of flight time for extensive field work. Variants equipped with water tanks have proved highly effective for aerial firefighting, and many have been retrofitted with modern turboprop powerplants to improve fuel efficiency and reliability.

The M‑18 Dromader’s versatility, low operating costs, and proven durability have cemented its legacy as a workhorse in agricultural aviation, influencing later designs and remaining in service well beyond its original production run. In recent decades the type has attracted renewed interest from private owners and flight schools, where its forgiving handling and low stall speed make it an excellent platform for pilot training in low‑altitude operations. Several air forces have employed the Dromader for border‑patrol and reconnaissance missions, fitting surveillance equipment to the sturdy airframe. The aircraft’s straightforward maintenance schedule, combined with the availability of spare parts from the original manufacturer and third‑party suppliers, continues to ensure high dispatch reliability in remote agricultural regions.