Design and Development
Development of the Ilyushin Il-112 began in 1994, conceived as a versatile light transport capable of serving both military and civilian roles. Designed by the Ilyushin Aviation Complex (JSC "IL"), the aircraft was intended to replace the Soviet-era Antonov An-26. The design features a high-wing configuration and a rear loading ramp, specifically optimized for short takeoff and landing (STOL) operations from unprepared or austere runways. While the military Il-112V variant was the primary focus, early design goals included a 40-seat airliner version and an 11-seat corporate shuttle.
Production and Manufacturing
The aircraft was built at the Voronezh Aircraft Production Association (VASO), a state-owned subsidiary of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) established in 1932. The first Il-112V prototype was rolled out at the Voronezh facility between late 2017 and January 2018. Despite plans for serial production between 2019 and 2023, the program never entered true mass production. Only two Il-112V prototypes were constructed: one flying prototype and one static airframe used for structural and endurance testing. Dmitry Saveliev served as the Program Director for the Il-112V.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The Il-112V is powered by two wing-mounted Klimov TV7-117ST turboprop engines, each capable of producing 2,800 hp. The aircraft has a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 20 tonnes and a maximum payload capacity of 6 tonnes, though the military variant is cited as capable of carrying between 6 and 7 tonnes of cargo and personnel. Performance figures vary by load; the aircraft can achieve a maximum cruise speed of 550–580 km/h and a service ceiling of 9,000 meters. Its range is estimated at 2,400 km with a 3,500 kg load, extending up to 5,000 km with a light 2-tonne payload, but dropping to 100 km when carrying a full 6-tonne load.
Service History and Legacy
In May 2003, the Russian Air Force selected the Il-112V as its next-generation airlifter, with an initial requirement for over 70 aircraft. However, the aircraft never entered operational squadron service. The sole flying prototype completed its first flight on March 30, 2019, but the program was effectively halted following a fatal crash of that prototype in 2021. The Il-112 remains a significant case study in Russia's attempt to shift away from Ukrainian-designed aircraft, such as the An-148, toward indigenous UAC products. The experience gained from the Il-112 has since informed the development of the related Il-212.