Modern Warfare emphasizes innovations such as drones and AI, but equally important challenges are maintaining mission response and operational daily for legacy aircraft.
This is about aviation. Many of the aircraft and helicopters currently in the sky were built during the Soviet era. That's no secret. But the challenges we face are completely modern. One of them is Avionics. Control, communications and flight data recording system.
Most of these systems were originally manufactured in Russia and were maintained there as well. Today, it is impossible and completely unacceptable. But aviation is not simply a technology that allows you to raise or replace patches. It all depends on certification, compliance with aviation standards, survival, and flight safety.
So, a few years ago, our people working in aviation are learning how to completely replace these systems without resorting to old suppliers and without losing their functionality.
And we did that. No big headings. Sturdy engineering.
Three approaches that work:
1. Import alternatives without changing the design
This involves creating an accurate replica of the component. It has the same dimensions, connectors, weight and mounting. Basically, only the manufacturer will change. This is the fastest and least risky solution for systems that require urgent recovery.
2. Creating a modern system compatible with older platforms
For example, we replaced the Soviet Almaz flight data recorder (where data was stored on magnetic wire) with a digital device using flash memory. There were no major changes to the aircraft required, but there were significant improvements in ease of use, reliability and maintenance logistics.
3. Integrating ready-made global technology
If it makes sense, we adapt modern equipment originally built for other aircraft and markets. However, each integration is a unique project. The power supply must be adapted, electromagnetic compatibility is ensured, cockpit indicators are redesigned, certified and tested.
Not feeling, stability
They have not created “mysterious weapons” for flashy press releases. We are creating reliability – the system that works when the pilot turns them on. A system that does not require complex logistics for services. One system that doesn't fail because of missing one.
And, importantly, these solutions are already working beyond Ukraine. Soviet-made fighters are still in use in Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe. These countries are also looking for suppliers who can not only make parts but also integrate them into living working systems.
Ukraine can become its supplier. When talking about the development of the defense industry, it's not just about creating new products. It is to prove that complex equipment can be maintained independently.
It may not look dramatic, but this is what appears to be maturity. And this is what keeps our aircraft empty.
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