Antonov An-32 (Cline)

Antonov An-32 (Cline) History

The Antonov An-32 (from the NATO reporting name "Cline") was developed as an improved version of the twin-engine An-26 ("Curl"). The An-32 introduced a more powerful engine for better "hot and high performance" performance, allowing it to operate in harsher conditions than the original An-26 was designed to operate in.

The An-26 debuted in 1969 and continues to have a long service career that continues to this day, while the An-32 followed in 1976 and has managed to remain relevant to many of the world's air powers to this day. The first flight took place on July 9, 1976, with 361 built, a far cry from the An-26's 1,400.

For simplicity, the An-32 retained the same general appearance as the An-26, and the new model series acquired its own name and eventual reputation mostly internally. The new engines have improved performance, especially for customers who require transport aircraft to operate in the tropics and at high altitudes, which has led to purchases by many customers in North Africa, the Middle East and Asia, including India, Iraq and Sri Lanka, among others.

Part of the short takeoff and landing characteristics of the An-32 comes from its high-set wings. The engines are mounted on the wings, rather than under them, so that ground crews can clear them completely while working on the plane. The high position of the engine also allows for the installation of large diameter propeller blades, which help generate more thrust. Power comes from 2 ZMKB Progress AI-20DM turboprop engines, each producing approximately 5,100 hp.

Several variants of this base design emerged, notable for increased maximum takeoff weight (MTOW), improved avionics and other systems, and completely different engine installations. The aircraft has a maximum payload capacity of approximately 7.5 tonnes, with cargo entering and exiting via a powered rear loading ramp under the empennage.

The standard crew consists of four people, including two pilots, a flight engineer and a loading supervisor. Performance specs include a top speed of 330 mph, a cruising speed of 292 mph and a range of up to 1,555 miles. The listed operating limit is 31,165 feet.

The

variant starts with the original An-32 tag. The An-32A was the civilian market version, with 36 built. An-32B is an improved An-32 brand, and An-32B-100 follows as a modernized form of the brand. The An-32B-110 introduced a new avionics package and reduced crew workload. The An-32B-120 is similar and equipped with Western avionics for demanding customers.

The An-32B-300 is equipped with Western Allison AE200D turboprops producing 4,600 hp each, again appealing to a wider market audience. The An-32RE is the modernized form of the B model series. The An-32LL is used as a flying laboratory, with a variety of equipment options suitable for the role.

An-32MP became a surface patrol platform with its own set of equipment. An-32P appeared in a fire version. A basic cargo brand became An-32V-200.

Specification

Basic

Production

Roles

Dimensions

Weight

Performance

Performance

Armor

Changes