Alexander Velovich/MOSCOW
ILYUSHIN HAS begun flight-testing a maritime-patrol variant of its Il-114 twin regional turboprop, the Il-114P.
The Il-114P is being developed in collaboration with the Proton-Service scientific research centre, NPO Geophisica, NPO Poliot, VNII Radiotechniki "Skala", NII Sistemotechniki and NII Prinbornoi Automatiki.
The variant is aimed at Russia's military and paramilitary forces, as well as civil-emergency operations.
It is unknown whether any firm orders for the aircraft have been placed. Proton has designed a maritime-surveillance-network architecture which could include coastal radar stations and regional command centres. The cabin is in two sections. The front part has a large cargo door and may be used for transporting freight on pallets or for evacuating wounded personnel from emergency areas. The rear section houses the Strizh maritime-surveillance system, including two crew workstations. Bubble-window positions are provided, to allow for visual observation. A gun pod is also included.
The Strizh system includes a surveillance radar, combined imaging-infra-red and television system, satellite-navigation system, mission computer, and a datalink. The aircraft has a claimed loiter time of 8-10h at 300km (160nm). The status of the Russian navy's Beriev A-40 Albatross amphibian long-range maritime-patrol aircraft remains in doubt.
Source: Flight International
