Northern Fleet Commissions New ASW Aircraft

06.03.2012 Upgraded variant of ASW aircraft Il-38 has been commissioned into Northern Fleet (NF). Its modification Il-38N has improved combat capabilities. Apart from antisubmarine functions, it can act as electronic intelligence naval aircraft. Il-38N is equipped with new onboard radar system Novella capable to detect targets at the range up to 320 km and designed for underwater, surface, and air reconnaissance.

Novella comprises digital computer and two operator workstations. The new radar includes infrared high-definition imaging system, magnetometer, optical sensor system with laser, television, and infrared channels, gravity disturbance gauge, and other instruments making possible to accomplish military tasks (searching of submarines, surface warfare etc) and conduct scientific researches in oceanology, ecology, and geologic exploration. Modernized airplane Il-38N with Novella radar system can be used for charting of the Arctic Ocean's magnetic and gravity maps.

The cockpit contains two operator workstations; each one is equipped with two liquid-crystal color multi-functional displays and a keyboard command panel. Except for tactical situation, digital navigation chart can be displayed as well. Same display is placed on navigator's panel board. The aircraft is equipped with new-generation droppable sonar- and magnetic buoys outclassing the world's best analogs.

New aircraft has already proved itself at NF antisubmarine drills. The aircraft modernization program implies retrofitting of the fleet's Il-38 airplanes up to Il-38N version.