MOSCOW. July 1 (Interfax-AVN) - The Russian Arms Program for the period until 2020 envisions the development of special purpose aircraft for the Russian Air Force, United Aircraft Corporation's member of the management board Viktor Livanov told Interfax-AVN.
"Ilyushin and the Defense Ministry are thinking over opportunities to convert the Il-96-400T into a new aircraft for the Russian Air Force," he said, noting that the baseline version possesses unique capabilities for developing a variety of modifications.
He also said that before the work starts, the document authorizing it is to be adopted - the new Arms Programs until 2020.
According to unofficial data, Ilyushin has thought over a tanker modification and a command post aircraft to be developed from the Il-96, the former expected to replace Il-78 and the latter - Il-80 aircraft in service.