The story
Before the C-5 or the An-124 existed, the Soviet Union needed to move tanks by air, so Antonov built a giant: a high wing, twin tails, and four NK-12 engines each spinning two propellers in opposite directions. The An-22 hauled armor, excavators and whole helicopters into dirt strips no jet transport could use. 68 were built. None are confirmed flying today: Ukraine's last airworthy Antei was damaged at Hostomel in 2022, and Russia's final examples stopped flying by the mid-2020s. If one ever crosses your map again, you are looking at the largest turboprop aircraft in history.
The An-22's four NK-12s are the most powerful turboprop engines ever to enter service, each driving two contra-rotating propellers. Together they made the Antei audible long before it was visible.
Quick answers
How do you identify a An-22 Antei?
Twin tail fins, a high wing, and four huge turboprops each with two sets of blades spinning against each other. Far bigger than a C-130 and unlike anything else with propellers.
What does a An-22 Antei sound like?
Four NK-12s with contra-rotating props: a thunderous, overlapping buzz from one of the loudest engine families in aviation.
How fast is the An-22 Antei?
Top speed is 400 kts.
How many people does the An-22 Antei carry?
Typical configuration: Outsize military cargo.
How far can the An-22 Antei fly?
Range is about 2,700 nmi (max payload).
How big is the An-22 Antei?
It is 190 ft 0 in long and 211 ft 4 in across the wings.
When did the An-22 Antei first fly?
Its first flight was in 1965.
How many An-22 Anteis have been built?
68 built.
How rare is a An-22 Antei in Bogey?
RARE. A good day. Most spotters go weeks between sightings of something this rare. Your first An-22 Antei catch is worth 250 points.
