Feniks Fe-76
Fe-76 | |
---|---|
A Zloveshchiyian Air Force Fe-76MD | |
Role
|
Strategic and tactical airlifter |
National origin
|
Zloveshchiy |
Manufacturer
|
Feniks |
First flight
|
26 January 1977 |
Introduction
|
17 March 1981 |
Status
|
in service |
Primary users
|
Zloveshchiyian Air Force Ajaki Air Force |
Number built
|
950+ |
Variants
|
Feniks Fe-78 |
The Feniks Fe-76 (Slavic: Феникс Фе-76) is a multi-purpose, fixed-wing, four-engine turbofan strategic airlifter designed by Zloveshchiy's aircraft manufacturer Feniks. It was first planned as a commercial freighter in 1970, as it was designed to deliver heavy machinery to remote, poorly served areas. Military versions of the Fe-76 have been widely used in Zloveshchiy and allied countries such as Ajakanistan, including use as an aerial refueling tanker or command center.
The Fe-76 has seen extensive service as a commercial freighter for ramp-delivered cargo, especially for outsized or heavy items unable to be otherwise carried. It has also been used as an emergency response transport for civilian evacuations as well as for humanitarian aid and disaster relief around the world. Due to its ability to operate from unpaved runways, it has been useful in undeveloped areas. Specialized models have also been produced for aerial firefighting and zero-G training.