The Soviet Union’s Ilyushin Design Bureau created the multi-purpose, fixed-wing, four-engine turbofan strategic airlifter known as the Ilyushin Il-76. It was initially envisioned in 1967 as a commercial freighter to take the role of the Antonov An-12. Heavy machinery delivery to isolated, underserved locations was its intended use. The Il-76 has seen extensive military use in Europe, Asia, and Africa, serving as a command post or tanker for aerial refuelling.
Why IAF IL-76 MD is also known as ‘Gajraj’?
The Il-76 has a long history of use as a commercial freighter carrying ramp-delivered cargo, particularly for bulky or large things that cannot be transported by other means. Additionally, it has been employed as a global emergency response vehicle for disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and civilian evacuations. It has been helpful in developing areas since it can take off from unpaved runways. Additionally, specialized models for zero-G training and aerial firefighting have been developed.
Known as the Gajraj (King Elephant) in the IAF, the IL-76MD forms the strategic/heavy transport fleet. An estimated 28 aircraft are in service in two squadrons. Deliveries to the IAF began in 1985 and they were used in the Maldives in 1987 and in Sri Lanka during 1987-1990 to great effect.
Features of the Il-76 (Nato: “Candid”) design
With a high-set, swept wing and T-shaped tail unit, the aircraft has a traditional aerodynamic design. There is pressure in the rear compartment, cargo hold, and crew cabin. The crew compartment is covered by an oval section of the beam-type fuselage, and the cargo hold is covered by a circular section. High-lift devices are installed on the leading and trailing edges of the wings. These include ailerons, spoilers, air brakes, deflectable five-section leading-edge slats, and triple-slotted trailing-edge extension flaps.
Management of Cargo and Weaponry
The air-drop and cargo handling equipment is designed to load, unload, and air-drop paratroopers and freight, organize the cargo optimally in accordance with the mission’s logistical requirements, and safely secure the cargo.
A medium-range military transport aircraft known as the IL-76 is also known by the NATO codename “Candid.” The equipment includes a roller conveyer, mooring/rigging, an auxiliary parachute, and ambulance gear. A telpher is an overhead cargo system that allows cargo to be suspended from an electrically powered rail.
Why IAF IL-76 MD four-engine turbofan strategic airlifter nicknamed ‘Gajraj’?
The Il-76 has a long history of use as a commercial freighter carrying ramp-delivered cargo, particularly for bulky or large things that cannot be transported by other means. Additionally, it has been employed as a global emergency response vehicle for disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and civilian evacuations. It has been helpful in developing areas since it can take off from unpaved runways. Additionally, specialized models for zero-G training and aerial firefighting have been developed.
It is used to pick up heavy machines and guns. Simultaneously it can lift and drop paratroopers in a high altitude zone. This is why the name Gajraj means King Elephant which shows immersive power and strength. It delivers cargo at such a high altitude which is beyond imagination.
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