Gigantic 93kg RC Antonov AN-225 Hybrid Model Airplane

The Antonov An-225 Mriya is a strategic airlift cargo aircraft designed by the Antonov Design Bureau in the Ukrainian SSR during the 1980s. Originally developed for transporting oversized cargo, it became the world's largest and heaviest operational aircraft.

Michael Speier has built an impressive RC model of the An-225 at a 1:16 scale. This giant replica boasts a wingspan of 5.8 meters and a length of approximately 5.3 meters. It is powered by two Behotec JB-180 gasoline engines and four 90er EDF 6s electric fan engines, generating over 47 kg of thrust. The aircraft has a takeoff weight of approximately 93.5 kg.

The An-225 was developed from the earlier Antonov An-124, featuring fuselage barrel extensions at the front and rear of the wings, along with root extensions to increase the wingspan. The RC model faithfully replicates these modifications, including its impressive 32-wheel landing gear system.

The real An-225 initially had a maximum gross weight of 600 tons. However, between 2000 and 2001, it underwent modifications costing $20 million, including a reinforced floor, which increased its maximum gross weight to 640 tons.

This incredible RC model pays tribute to the engineering marvel of the An-225, keeping its legacy alive.