For the first time since independence, the state orders from Antonov three new Ukrainian An-178 aircraft, which will be received by the army.

A memorandum with the participation of the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky was signed between the Ministry of Defense and the Antonov State Enterprise on cooperation in the construction of aircraft for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

At the first stage, we are talking about three new military transport aircraft An-178, which will receive the Armed Forces. They can be used for the delivery of personnel, weapons and light military equipment by landing and parachute methods, as well as for the transportation of goods.

These new aircraft will be built by Ukrainian citizens, from Ukrainian components, for Ukrainian interests. In fact, this is how it should be.

Zelensky said before the signing ceremony of the document, which took place at the Antonov State Enterprise

Volodymyr Zelensky noted that many international partners are showing considerable interest in the An family of aircraft, in particular in military transport models.

But at the same time, and this is logical, they always ask me and ask me whether these planes have been adopted in Ukraine? That is why this step is doubly important. It strengthens Ukraine's defense capabilities and will help attract Ukrainian and foreign investments.

Volodymyr Zelensky

The Head of State also stressed that in the future such state orders should not be a sensation, but a norm. Therefore, in the near future he expects a full-fledged comprehensive plan from the management of SE "Antonov" to restore and strengthen the human resources of the company, the return of lost professionals and attract new professionals.

The President invited State customers to continue working on new contracts for the production of the An-178 from next year, and the government to work on the establishment of a Ukrainian airline in 2021, which will use Antonov aircraft. And also, to develop the State scientific and technical program on development of the aviation industry for 2021-2030 and to prepare carrying out of the corresponding meeting of Council of national safety and defense of Ukraine. 

Let's do everything possible for the aviation industry of Ukraine to overcome all zones of turbulence and rise to new heights.

Volodymyr Zelensky