Modernisation of the An-124-100 “Ruslan” Marks a New Chapter for Ukraine’s Aerospace Industry
The successful completion of the modernisation and relocation of the An-124-100 “Ruslan” marks a significant milestone in Ukraine’s aerospace sector. This iconic transport aircraft, serial number 0706, was recently moved from Ukraine to Germany on 11 July 2025. The operation highlights the resilience and technical expertise of Ukrainian engineers, who have managed to overcome numerous challenges during this complex process.
The An-124-100 is one of the largest cargo aircraft in the world, known for its ability to carry heavy and oversized cargo. Manufactured in 1994, the aircraft has accumulated over 21,000 flight hours and completed more than 5,500 missions. Its modernisation began in 2021 with the goal of replacing key components that were originally sourced from Russia with systems developed in the West and within Ukraine. This shift was driven by the need to reduce dependency on Russian technology, especially after the full-scale invasion in 2022.
During the early stages of the conflict, work on the project was temporarily halted. At that time, the aircraft was partially disassembled. However, despite the challenging conditions brought about by the war, the team at Antonov JSC managed to resume operations and complete the project in June 2025.
A Symbol of Resilience and Professionalism
The relocation of the “Ruslan” to Germany is not just a technical achievement but also a powerful symbol of the resilience, professionalism, and unity of Ukrainian aircraft engineers. It demonstrates how the country’s aerospace industry continues to thrive despite the ongoing challenges.
Now fully modernised, the aircraft is expected to remain in active service, supporting international missions and showcasing the capabilities of Ukrainian aerospace engineering on the global stage. The modernisation process involved upgrading critical systems, including avionics, engines, and other essential components, ensuring the aircraft meets current safety and performance standards.
Antonov JSC has confirmed that its entire operational fleet is currently in safe condition and fully compliant with internal safety protocols. This statement underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining high standards of aviation safety and reliability.
Key Highlights of the Modernisation Process
- Replacement of Components: Russian-made parts were replaced with Western and Ukrainian systems.
- Timeline: The project started in 2021, was paused during the early months of the war, and was completed in June 2025.
- Technical Challenges: Engineers faced significant obstacles due to the conflict, yet they managed to resume and finish the project.
- Global Representation: The modernised aircraft will continue to support international missions, promoting Ukrainian engineering abroad.
Conclusion
The relocation and modernisation of the An-124-100 “Ruslan” exemplify the strength and adaptability of Ukraine’s aerospace industry. It serves as a testament to the dedication of the engineers involved and their ability to deliver results even under the most difficult circumstances. As the aircraft prepares for future missions, it stands as a symbol of hope, innovation, and perseverance.
