Antonov has called for a revamped variant of the An-124-100 aircraft being developed by Russia’s Ilyushin Design Bureau to be given a new designation on the grounds that the updates will result in key changes to the aircraft’s performance.

Reports suggest that Ilyushin is developing deep modifications to the An-124-100 and plans to designate the aircraft An-124-100m.

However, Antonov said: “Selection and installation of new equipment by Ilyushin Design Bureau will lead to key changes of the aircraft performance in comparison to the basic model. So, a new aircraft will appear in the aviation history

“That is why it needs a new designation without reference to “AN”, because Antonov Company does not take part in development of this new airplane and will not responsible for its safety.”

Source: UNIAN