The Antonov An-225 Mriya was originally operated between 1988 and 1991 as the prime method of transporting Buran-class orbiters for the Soviet space program. After successfully fulfilling its Soviet military missions, it was mothballed for eight years. It was then refurbished and reintroduced into commercial operation with Antonov Airlines, a Ukrainian cargo airline formed as a division of the Antonov aviation company. The aircraft became the workhorse of the Antonov Airlines fleet, transporting objects once thought impossible to move by air, such as 130-ton generators, wind turbine blades, and even diesel locomotives. It also became an asset to international relief organizations for its ability to quickly transport huge quantities of emergency supplies during multiple disaster-relief operations. Sadly, this unique aircraft was destroyed in the Battle of Antonov Airport during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Antonov An-225 MriyaDesigned as a strategic airlift cargo aircraft, the An-225 Mriya (Dream) was first flown on December 21st, 1988. The An-225 was developed as an enlarged derivative of the An-124 for carrying the Buran-class orbiter vehcile. With a maximum takeoff weight of 640 tonnes, the An-225 held several records, including heaviest aircraft ever built and largest wingspan of any aircraft in operational service.© Copyright 2003-2024 The Flying Mule, Inc. GeminiJets Gemini 200The GeminiJets "Gemini 200" range presents higly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of civilian and military aircraft in 1:200 scale. Prized by collectors worldwide, Gemini define the benchmark by which other 1:200 aircraft brands are judged.GeminiJets "Gemini 200" diecast airplanes feature:
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