Yakovlev Corporation
Ilyushin Il-276
The Ilyushin Il‑276, officially designated the ‘M-90’, is a medium‑weight tactical transport being developed under a partnership between the Russian Ilyushin Design Bureau and the Yakovlev Corporation. Initiated in 2019 as part of Russia’s effort to replace aging Soviet‑era cargo aircraft, the program was transferred to Yakovlev in 2021 to consolidate expertise in modular airframe design. The Il‑276 features a high‑wing, twin‑engine configuration powered by two modern turbofan engines that deliver a maximum payload of 10 tonnes and a range of up to 3 500 km when fully loaded. Its cargo hold is equipped with a rear ramp and a flexible loading system that can accommodate pallets, containers, vehicles, and airdrop pods. Advanced avionics, fly‑by‑wire controls, and an enclosed, pressurized cabin provide all‑weather capability and reduce crew workload. The aircraft is also fitted with reinforced landing gear for unpaved runway operations and a self‑defence suite that includes electronic counter‑measures. The Il‑276 represents a strategic step for Russia, offering a modern, versatile platform for military logistics, humanitarian missions, and potential civilian freight service, thereby strengthening the nation’s strategic airlift capacity in the 2020s. Production is slated to begin in the mid‑2020s, with export variants already being discussed with allied partners.
Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 0
- First Flight
- 2017