The modernisation replaced Russian-made components with Western and Ukrainian systems; the operation symbolises the resilience and expertise of Ukraine’s aerospace industry.
ANTONOV JSC has successfully completed the relocation of one of its most iconic transport aircraft, the An-124-100 “Ruslan”, serial number 0706, following a complex and lengthy modernisation process. The giant cargo aircraft was safely transferred from Ukraine to Germany on 11 July 2025.
+ Click here to watch the video
Manufactured in 1994, the aircraft has accumulated over 21,000 flight hours and 5,500 registered missions. The deep overhaul began in 2021 with the goal of replacing key Russian-origin components with parts made in the West and in Ukraine — a strategic necessity heightened by the outbreak of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
+ X-59 Aircraft Moves for the First Time in NASA Tests
During the early months of the war, work was suspended. At that time, the aircraft was partially disassembled. Despite the extreme conditions imposed by the conflict, the ANTONOV JSC team managed to resume operations and complete the project in June 2025.
The relocation of “Ruslan” to Germany represents more than just a technical achievement: it has become a powerful symbol of the resilience, professionalism, and unity of Ukrainian aircraft engineers. Now fully modernised, the cargo aircraft is expected to remain in active service, supporting international missions and representing Ukrainian aerospace engineering abroad.
According to ANTONOV JSC, the company’s entire operational fleet is currently in safe condition, fully compliant with internal safety protocols.
Source and images: @antonov_company. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
