BERIEV Be-200 Altair Specs: Comprehensive Guide to Aircraft Capabilities

The BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a Russian amphibious aircraft designed by the Beriev Aircraft Company. It is a multi-role aircraft that can be used for a variety of purposes, including firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport. The Be-200 is powered by two turboprop engines and has a maximum takeoff weight of 42,000 kg (92,500 lb). It has a range of 3,700 km (2,300 mi) and a maximum speed of 560 km/h (350 mph). The Be-200 is equipped with a variety of sensors and systems, including a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera, a search radar, and a weather radar. It also has a cargo hold that can accommodate up to 12 metric tons (26,455 lb) of cargo.

The Be-200 has been in service with the Russian Air Force since 2003. It has also been exported to several other countries, including China, Indonesia, and Turkey. The Be-200 has been used in a variety of operations, including firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport. It has also been used in humanitarian missions, such as the delivery of aid to victims of natural disasters.

The Be-200 is a versatile and capable aircraft that has proven to be valuable in a variety of roles. It is likely to continue to be in service for many years to come.

BERIEV Be-200 Altair Specs

Amphibious: The Be-200 can land on both water and land, making it ideal for search and rescue operations in remote areas.
Multi-role: The Be-200 can be used for a variety of purposes, including firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport.
Turboprop engines: The Be-200 is powered by two turboprop engines, which are more fuel-efficient than jet engines and provide better low-speed performance.
Maximum takeoff weight: The Be-200 has a maximum takeoff weight of 42,000 kg (92,500 lb), which gives it a large payload capacity.
Range: The Be-200 has a range of 3,700 km (2,300 mi), which gives it the ability to operate over long distances.
Speed: The Be-200 has a maximum speed of 560 km/h (350 mph), which makes it one of the fastest amphibious aircraft in the world.
Sensors and systems: The Be-200 is equipped with a variety of sensors and systems, including a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera, a search radar, and a weather radar, which give it the ability to operate in a variety of conditions.
Cargo hold: The Be-200 has a cargo hold that can accommodate up to 12 metric tons (26,455 lb) of cargo, which makes it ideal for transporting large and heavy items.

The BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a versatile and capable aircraft that has proven to be valuable in a variety of roles. It is likely to continue to be in service for many years to come.

Amphibious

The amphibious capability of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair is one of its most important features. It allows the aircraft to land on both water and land, making it ideal for search and rescue operations in remote areas. In addition, the Be-200’s amphibious capability allows it to operate in a variety of conditions, including open water, rivers, and lakes. This makes it a valuable asset for search and rescue operations in areas that are difficult to access by land or air.

The Be-200 has been used in a number of search and rescue operations around the world. In 2010, a Be-200 was used to rescue 14 people from a sinking boat in the Black Sea. In 2011, a Be-200 was used to evacuate people from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant after the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. The Be-200 has also been used in search and rescue operations in the United States, Canada, and China.

The amphibious capability of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a valuable asset for search and rescue operations. It allows the aircraft to operate in a variety of conditions and to reach areas that are difficult to access by land or air. This makes the Be-200 a valuable asset for saving lives and protecting property.

Multi-role

The multi-role capability of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair is one of its most important features. It allows the aircraft to be used for a variety of purposes, including firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport. This makes the Be-200 a valuable asset for a variety of organizations, including government agencies, military forces, and private companies.

Firefighting: The Be-200 can be equipped with a water tank and a variety of firefighting equipment, including water cannons and foam dispensers. This makes it ideal for fighting fires in remote areas, where access by land or air may be difficult. The Be-200 has been used to fight fires in Russia, Canada, and the United States.
Search and rescue: The Be-200 can be equipped with a variety of search and rescue equipment, including a search radar, a FLIR camera, and a life raft. This makes it ideal for searching for and rescuing people in distress at sea or on land. The Be-200 has been used in search and rescue operations in Russia, China, and the United States.
Cargo transport: The Be-200 can be used to transport a variety of cargo, including food, supplies, and equipment. This makes it ideal for transporting cargo to remote areas, where access by land or air may be difficult. The Be-200 has been used to transport cargo in Russia, Canada, and the United States.

The multi-role capability of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair makes it a valuable asset for a variety of organizations. It allows the aircraft to be used for a variety of purposes, including firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport. This makes the Be-200 a valuable asset for saving lives and protecting property.

Turboprop engines

The use of turboprop engines in the BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a significant factor in its overall performance and capabilities. Turboprop engines offer several advantages over jet engines, particularly in the context of the Be-200’s intended roles and operating environment.

Fuel efficiency: Turboprop engines are more fuel-efficient than jet engines, especially at lower speeds and altitudes. This is a critical factor for the Be-200, which often operates in remote areas where fuel availability may be limited. The Be-200’s fuel efficiency allows it to travel long distances without needing to refuel, increasing its operational range and flexibility.
Low-speed performance: Turboprop engines provide better low-speed performance than jet engines. This is important for the Be-200, which frequently operates at low speeds during takeoff, landing, and search and rescue operations. The Be-200’s low-speed performance allows it to operate in confined areas and to land on water, making it ideal for missions in remote and challenging environments.
Reliability: Turboprop engines are generally more reliable than jet engines, requiring less maintenance and downtime. This is essential for the Be-200, which is often used in harsh and demanding conditions. The Be-200’s reliability ensures that it is available when needed, maximizing its operational effectiveness.
Cost-effectiveness: Turboprop engines are generally more cost-effective to operate than jet engines. This is due to their lower fuel consumption and maintenance costs. The Be-200’s cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for operators looking for a versatile and affordable aircraft.

In summary, the use of turboprop engines in the BERIEV Be-200 Altair contributes to its fuel efficiency, low-speed performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. These factors make the Be-200 an ideal aircraft for a wide range of missions, including firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport.

Maximum takeoff weight

The maximum takeoff weight of an aircraft is a critical factor in determining its payload capacity and overall performance. In the case of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair, its maximum takeoff weight of 42,000 kg (92,500 lb) is a significant contributor to its versatility and effectiveness in various roles.

A large payload capacity allows the Be-200 to carry a substantial amount of cargo, equipment, or personnel. This is particularly important for the aircraft’s firefighting capabilities, as it can transport large quantities of water or fire retardant to combat blazes in remote areas. Similarly, in search and rescue operations, the Be-200’s large payload capacity enables it to carry specialized equipment, medical supplies, and personnel to assist survivors.

Furthermore, the Be-200’s maximum takeoff weight contributes to its range and endurance. With a heavier takeoff weight, the aircraft can carry more fuel, allowing it to travel longer distances without needing to refuel. This is crucial for missions that require the Be-200 to operate in remote or inaccessible areas, where refueling may be difficult or impossible.

In summary, the maximum takeoff weight of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a key component of its overall specifications, directly influencing its payload capacity, range, and endurance. These factors are essential for the aircraft’s effectiveness in performing a wide range of missions, including firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport.

Range

The range of an aircraft is a critical factor in determining its operational capabilities and the types of missions it can perform. The BERIEV Be-200 Altair has a range of 3,700 km (2,300 mi), which gives it the ability to operate over long distances, making it suitable for a wide range of roles, including firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport.

Global Reach: The Be-200’s long range allows it to reach remote and inaccessible areas, making it an invaluable asset for humanitarian missions and disaster relief operations. For instance, the Be-200 has been deployed to fight wildfires in Siberia and to provide aid to victims of natural disasters in Southeast Asia.
Extended Search and Rescue Operations: The Be-200’s range enables it to conduct extended search and rescue operations over vast expanses of water or land. Its ability to cover large distances quickly increases the chances of locating and rescuing survivors in distress.
Long-Haul Cargo Transport: The Be-200’s range makes it suitable for long-haul cargo transport missions, particularly to remote communities or regions with limited infrastructure. It can deliver essential supplies, equipment, and personnel to areas that are difficult to reach by other means.
Multi-Role Versatility: The Be-200’s range complements its multi-role capabilities, allowing it to perform diverse tasks over long distances. For instance, it can transport firefighters and equipment to a remote wildfire location and then remain on-site to provide aerial firefighting support.

In summary, the range of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a crucial aspect of its specifications, enabling it to operate over long distances and perform a variety of missions effectively. Its global reach, extended search and rescue capabilities, long-haul cargo transport capacity, and multi-role versatility make it a valuable asset for governments, humanitarian organizations, and commercial operators worldwide.

Speed

The speed of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a key aspect of its specifications, contributing to its overall performance and capabilities. The aircraft’s maximum speed of 560 km/h (350 mph) makes it one of the fastest amphibious aircraft in the world, providing several advantages and implications:

Rapid Response: The Be-200’s high speed enables it to respond quickly to emergency situations, such as wildfires or search and rescue operations. Its ability to cover long distances in a short amount of time is crucial for minimizing response times and maximizing effectiveness.
Enhanced Search and Rescue Capabilities: The Be-200’s speed allows it to conduct extensive search operations over large areas in a shorter time frame, increasing the probability of locating survivors and providing timely assistance.
Efficient Cargo Transport: The Be-200’s speed is advantageous for cargo transport missions, particularly over long distances. Its ability to deliver supplies and equipment swiftly can be critical in disaster relief efforts or humanitarian aid operations.
Multi-Role Versatility: The Be-200’s speed complements its multi-role capabilities, allowing it to transition between different tasks efficiently. For instance, it can quickly transport firefighters and equipment to a wildfire location and then switch to aerial firefighting operations.

In summary, the speed of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair is an essential aspect of its specifications, enabling it to perform a wide range of missions with greater efficiency and effectiveness. Its rapid response capabilities, enhanced search and rescue operations, efficient cargo transport, and multi-role versatility make it a valuable asset for governments, organizations, and commercial operators worldwide.

Sensors and systems

The BERIEV Be-200 Altair is equipped with an array of sensors and systems that significantly enhance its capabilities and enable it to operate effectively in diverse conditions. These sensors and systems play a crucial role in the aircraft’s firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport missions.

Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) Camera:

The FLIR camera detects and visualizes infrared radiation, allowing the Be-200 to identify heat sources and objects with low visibility. This is particularly useful in firefighting operations, as it helps locate hotspots and guide water drops with greater precision. Additionally, the FLIR camera aids in search and rescue missions by detecting body heat, increasing the chances of finding survivors in challenging conditions.
Search Radar:

The search radar emits electromagnetic waves to detect and track objects, providing the Be-200 with a comprehensive view of its surroundings. This radar is instrumental in search and rescue operations, as it can scan large areas quickly and identify potential targets, such as life rafts or debris. Moreover, the search radar assists in navigation, allowing the aircraft to locate landmarks and avoid obstacles, especially in low-visibility conditions.
Weather Radar:

The weather radar detects and analyzes precipitation, providing the Be-200 with real-time information about weather conditions. This is crucial for mission planning and safety, as the aircraft can avoid areas with severe weather, such as thunderstorms or heavy rain. The weather radar also helps optimize flight paths, ensuring efficient and safe navigation, especially during long-range missions.

In summary, the sensors and systems equipped on the BERIEV Be-200 Altair greatly enhance its operational capabilities and versatility. The FLIR camera, search radar, and weather radar provide valuable information and assistance in firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport missions, enabling the aircraft to operate effectively in a wide range of conditions and challenging environments.

Cargo hold

The cargo hold is a significant aspect of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair’s specifications, enabling it to perform a wide range of cargo transport missions effectively. Its large capacity and versatility contribute to the aircraft’s overall capabilities and make it a valuable asset in various sectors.

Cargo Capacity and Versatility:

The Be-200’s cargo hold can accommodate up to 12 metric tons of cargo, providing ample space for transporting large and heavy items. This capacity makes it suitable for various applications, including transporting humanitarian aid, construction materials, equipment, and machinery to remote or disaster-stricken areas.
Multi-Role Applications:

The cargo hold enhances the Be-200’s multi-role capabilities, allowing it to seamlessly transition between different missions. For instance, it can be used for firefighting operations and then quickly reconfigured to transport personnel or cargo to support relief efforts.
Amphibious Operations:

The Be-200’s amphibious nature, combined with its cargo hold, makes it ideal for delivering supplies and equipment to coastal regions or areas with limited infrastructure. It can land directly on water bodies, enabling efficient and direct delivery of cargo.
Humanitarian and Disaster Relief:

The Be-200’s cargo hold plays a crucial role in humanitarian and disaster relief operations. It can transport food, water, medical supplies, and other essential items to affected areas, providing vital support during emergencies.

In summary, the cargo hold of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair is an integral part of its specifications, contributing to its versatility, multi-role capabilities, and effectiveness in performing cargo transport missions. The aircraft’s ability to carry large and heavy items makes it a valuable asset in various sectors, including humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and commercial operations.

BERIEV Be-200 Altair Specs FAQs

This section addresses frequently asked questions regarding the BERIEV Be-200 Altair aircraft and its specifications, providing clear and concise answers based on factual information.

Question 1: What is the primary purpose of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair?

The BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a multi-role amphibious aircraft primarily designed for firefighting, search and rescue operations, and cargo transport. Its versatility and capabilities make it suitable for various missions in both civilian and military applications.

Question 2: What sets the Be-200 apart from other firefighting aircraft?

The Be-200’s amphibious capabilities differentiate it from other firefighting aircraft. It can land on both water and land, enabling it to access remote areas and refill its water tanks directly from natural water sources. This unique feature enhances its efficiency and effectiveness in combating wildfires and other emergencies.

Question 3: What advanced sensors and systems does the Be-200 employ?

The Be-200 is equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and systems, including a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera, a search radar, and a weather radar. These systems provide enhanced situational awareness, enabling the aircraft to detect and locate targets in challenging conditions, navigate effectively, and avoid adverse weather.

Question 4: How does the Be-200’s speed contribute to its capabilities?

The Be-200’s high speed, reaching up to 560 km/h (350 mph), allows it to respond rapidly to emergencies and cover long distances efficiently. This speed is particularly advantageous in search and rescue operations, where time is of the essence.

Question 5: What is the maximum cargo capacity of the Be-200?

The Be-200 has a spacious cargo hold that can accommodate up to 12 metric tons (26,455 lb) of cargo. This capacity makes it suitable for transporting large and heavy items, such as equipment, supplies, and humanitarian aid, to remote areas or disaster-stricken regions.

Question 6: In what types of environments does the Be-200 operate?

The Be-200 is designed to operate in a wide range of environments, including open water, rivers, lakes, and land. Its amphibious capabilities enable it to access areas that are inaccessible to traditional aircraft, making it an invaluable asset in disaster relief and humanitarian missions.

In summary, the BERIEV Be-200 Altair’s unique features, advanced technology, and versatility make it an exceptional aircraft for firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport operations. Its amphibious capabilities, high speed, and spacious cargo hold contribute to its effectiveness in diverse environments and challenging missions.

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Tips for Utilizing BERIEV Be-200 Altair Specs

The BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a versatile aircraft with a wide range of capabilities. By understanding its specifications and utilizing them effectively, operators can maximize the aircraft’s performance and efficiency.

Tip 1: Consider Amphibious Capabilities: Leverage the Be-200’s amphibious capabilities to access remote areas and land on water bodies. This unique feature enables direct water collection for firefighting operations and efficient cargo delivery to coastal regions.

Tip 2: Utilize Sensor and System Integration: Make full use of the Be-200’s advanced sensors and systems, including FLIR cameras, search radar, and weather radar. These systems enhance situational awareness, allowing for precise target detection, effective navigation, and avoidance of adverse weather conditions.

Tip 3: Optimize Cargo Loading: Utilize the Be-200’s spacious cargo hold to transport large and heavy items. Careful cargo distribution and loading techniques ensure stability, safety, and efficient use of space.

Tip 4: Maximize Range and Endurance: Plan missions carefully, considering the Be-200’s range and endurance capabilities. Optimize fuel consumption and minimize unnecessary detours to extend the aircraft’s operational reach.

Tip 5: Enhance Crew Training: Invest in comprehensive training programs for pilots and crew members to ensure proficiency in operating the Be-200’s advanced systems and handling its unique flight characteristics.

Key Takeaways: By adhering to these tips, operators can unlock the full potential of the BERIEV Be-200 Altair, maximizing its capabilities in firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport operations. Its versatility, advanced technology, and amphibious nature make it an invaluable asset for various missions and challenging environments.

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Conclusion

The BERIEV Be-200 Altair is a remarkable aircraft that combines versatility, advanced technology, and amphibious capabilities. Its unique specifications make it an invaluable asset for a wide range of missions, including firefighting, search and rescue, and cargo transport. Understanding and effectively utilizing these specifications is crucial for maximizing the aircraft’s performance and efficiency.

By leveraging the Be-200’s amphibious nature, advanced sensors and systems, spacious cargo hold, and optimizing operational strategies, operators can unlock its full potential. Continued investment in crew training and technological advancements will further enhance the aircraft’s capabilities and ensure its continued success in performing critical missions around the globe.

BERIEV Be-200 Altair Specs: Comprehensive Guide to Aircraft Capabilities