At least this is the plan for now
We have already written that instead of the Il-112V, Russia began to develop another light transport aircraft — IL-212. And now there is an approximate guideline for when we can expect it. As Sergei Shoigu reported today, a prototype of the aircraft will appear in about two and a half years.
«The United Aircraft Corporation has already begun developing a technical design for the aircraft. Production of the prototype is planned for the end of 2026», — said Sergei Shoigu. He also added: “These machines will replace the aging fleet of An-26 and An-72. The new transport aircraft will be distinguished by increased payload and flight range, ease of refueling and maintenance».
Recall that the key difference between the IL-212 and the IL-112V will be the transition from TV7-117ST turboprop engines to PD-8 turbofan engines, like the import-substituted SJ-100 airliner. True, it is the PD-8 that is cited as the reason for the delay in deliveries of serial SJ-100s, but by 2026 the engine should definitely be brought to fruition. The transition to a new engine requires modifications to the wing, fuel and hydraulic systems, and the significantly increased payload capacity (the aircraft will be able to carry 10–12 tons of cargo instead of 5 tons) necessitates the installation of a new landing gear.