An-2 From 1947 Returns as Russia Trials Ski-Fitted Modernization for Snow Strips

Russia has carried out demonstration flights of a modernized Antonov An-2 biplane fitted with ski landing gear, as Moscow looks to keep the Soviet-era aircraft operating for Arctic patrol and winter logistics tasks, according to Army Recognition on February 18.

Army Recognition said the tests were completed on February 8 and were focused on takeoff and landing performance on deep snow, including ground handling and structural response on unprepared winter strips.

The outlet reported that the upgrade package includes changes to the wing and landing gear and updated onboard equipment aimed at extending the service life of the An-2 while Russia awaits a replacement light utility aircraft under the LMS-901 Baikal program .

The flights come as Russia seeks stopgap options for remote-area aviation while the Baikal program has faced delays and cost increases, with some reports putting the projected unit price at about $5.8 million, up from about $1.6 million.

The An-2 traces its origins to a late-1940s Soviet effort to obtain a rugged utility aircraft for forestry and agriculture.

Designed under Oleg Antonov at the Antonov bureau, the prototype flew on August 31, 1947, and the type soon moved toward mass production in the postwar period, becoming one of the most widely built biplanes in aviation history.  

The modernization tests come as Russia has continued to expand its footprint across the High North, reopening Soviet-era installations and upgrading airfields and other infrastructure along the Northern Sea Route to support year-round operations, while the Northern Fleet has stepped up activity in nearby waters, including live-fire drills close to Norway’s maritime border. 

Earlier, it was reported that Russia is expanding its Arctic operating capacity by advancing powerful icebreaker capabilities that support year-round access and logistics in the High North.

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