Volga-Dnepr Group, Motor Sich OJSC and Antonov Design Bureau (ADB) have completed another stage in the production and modernization of the AN-124-100M-150 cargo aircraft.

The reason modernization of this aircraft is being demanded is because the outsize-cargo market served by ramp freighters is growing rapidly at around nine per cent faster per annum than the scheduled cargo market. In 2006, the total market for oversized air cargo was valued at US$700 million. By 2020, the market is expected to be worth over $3 billion, growing to more than $7 billion by 2030, the statement added.

Volga-Dnepr and ADB plan to expand their fleets with renovated AN-124-100M-150 freighters and have placed an order for 17 freighters at the MAKS-2007 International Airshow in Russia. Motor Sich will also revamp its D-18T series IV engine for the Ruslan freighter, a joint statement said.

ADB also confirmed it will become shareholders of GLA Cargo Aircraft, a joint venture established in December 2006 by Volga-Dnepr and Motor Sich to manage the revived AN-124-100 production project.

The various stages of the AN-124-100 modernization involves: installing brand new navigation systems; developing design documents and blueprints for the modernized freighter equipped with A-820M complex; introducing a modernized brake system and reverse thrust; and further noise reduction measures.

The AN-124-100 Ruslan is capable of carrying cargo weighing up to 150 tons and 6.5 metres in diameter.