Air cruiser “Moscow”: what is known about the Russian A-50 reconnaissance aircraft destroyed in the skies over Ukraine

The Russian military may have lost an A-50 airborne early warning and control aircraft with tail number RF-50601 “Red” in the skies over Ukraine. This event, reported by PCE Air Force Commander Nikolai Oleschuk, could have serious consequences for the Russian defense system.

The A-50 is a unique long-range radar detection and control aircraft, developed on the basis of the Il-76 military transport aircraft, the Military publication recalls. This aircraft, intended to replace the outdated Tu-126, first flew in December 1978. To increase its combat capabilities, the aircraft is equipped with the Shmel radio-technical complex, including a three-dimensional radar, an active response system and a digital computing complex.

The aircraft can detect various targets at considerable distances, including air, ground and surface objects. Capable of reconnaissance of ballistic missile plumes at a distance of up to 800 km and accompanying aircraft and cruise missiles at distances of up to 700 km.

Typically, 10-11 operators work on board an aircraft with the complex: a commander, a senior guidance navigator, two guidance navigators, a senior support operator, two support operators, and flight engineers for RTK, radar and communications equipment. Along with them there are 5 flight crew members on board.

The A-50 can provide external target designation to fighter aircraft and act as an airborne command post.

Let us remember that at the beginning of the great war the Russians had 9 such aircraft. One was blown up on February 26, 2023 at an airfield in Machulishchi (Belarus), probably by a Ukrainian drone. The current loss of the reconnaissance aircraft could have a significant impact on Russian defense capabilities. That’s why the Russians are delaying official confirmation.