Aircraft Sea Aviation IL-38 decided to upgrade

After the use of IL-38H aircraft in Syria, it was decided to modernize these machines. According to preliminary calculations, this can be done by the end of 2025. As a result, the Russian Navy will have a modernized aircraft based on the IL-38H "Novella."

Serial production of IL-38 began in the year 1967 and lasted five years. A total of 65 machines were created. Fifty such planes are flying now. Modernization began in 2012. It is carried out on the project "Novella". To date, eight aircraft upgraded.

The decision to upgrade will affect the 25 machines. This new project is called "Supernova".

The upgraded IL-38 will be different special container with equipment installed under the fuselage. However, this will not affect the basic characteristics. The plane will be able to fly at a speed of 650 kilometers per hour, and its range will reach 9,5 thousands of kilometers.

The upgraded version will be equipped with new systems for searching for submarines and aiming. A new radar will be installed. The aircraft will receive a modern optical-electronic system with laser and television, as well as thermal imaging channels.

The aircraft will also be equipped with sensor equipment, including those providing detection of submarines by their physical fields (noise, magnetic field, infrared radiation). Such equipment will provide escort for surface ships up to 320 kilometers, and for air targets up to 90 kilometers.

Currently IL-38 is armed with a torpedo. It is assumed that the upgrade will allow the installation of X-35 anti-ship missiles on it.