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Antonov An-72
Transport aircraft by Antonov / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Antonov An-72 (NATO reporting name: Coaler) is a Soviet transport aircraft, developed by Antonov. It was designed as a STOL transport and intended as a replacement for the Antonov An-26,[3] but variants have found success as commercial freighters.
Quick Facts An-72, Role ...
An-72 | |
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A Russian Air Force An-72 on short final in to Chkalovsky Airport | |
Role | Transport aircraft |
National origin | Soviet Union |
Manufacturer | Antonov |
First flight | 31 August 1977 (1977-08-31)[1] |
Status | In service |
Primary users | Russian Aerospace Forces |
Produced | 1977–present |
Number built | 195 (An-72 & An-74)[2] |
Variants | Antonov An-74 |
Developed into | Antonov An-71 |
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The An-72 and the related An-74 get their nickname, Cheburashka, from the large engine intake ducts, which resemble the oversized ears of the popular Soviet animated character of the same name.