Image source: topwar.ru
The North Korean long-range radar detection and control aircraft (AWACS), created on the basis of the Russian military-technical cooperation Il-76, made its first flight. The relevant photos were posted by the state media. In particular, they depict the country's leader, Kim Jong-un, inspecting the interior of the car.
- said Kim.
Image source: topwar.ru
Unlike the Russian equivalent of the A-50 and the Chinese KJ-2000, the North Korean aircraft, at least for the moment, is equipped with a small number of antennas and other protruding elements typical of this type of aircraft.
The characteristic triangular shape of the fairing is visible on the upper part of the fuselage, which, as it is now clear, is stationary (like the KJ-2000 and other AWACS aircraft of the PRC), unlike the similar design on the A-50.
Image Source: topwar.ru
Judging by the interior of the car, there are at least seven separate workstations inside, as well as flat-screen monitors on the inner walls of the fuselage and the front bulkhead. AWACS aircraft usually have a relatively large crew tasked with monitoring the combat area around the aircraft and controlling friendly vehicles. The interior looks very modern, the interior is spacious.
Image Source: topwar.ru
As American observers point out, it remains unclear "to what extent the Russians, Chinese, or both could have participated in the development and production of the DPRK's first aircraft of this type." Previously, various variants of the A-50 were used in India, Iraq and Iran.
