Russia's ministry for emergencies has ordered for two VASO-built Antonov An-148 regional jets.
The first aircraft is scheduled for certification in October 2012 and the second by the end of 2013. Both are based on the An-148-100E "extended range" platform that has a larger maximum take-off weight of 43t - 2t more than the baseline An-148-100B.
The aircraft are configured for multi-mission capability including medical, business/VIP and all-economy configuration for 75 passengers.
The ministry's aviation head Gen Rafail Zakirov says the An-148 could eventually replace several types in its inventory, including the Ilyushin Il-62M, the Yakovlev Yak-42D, Antonov An-74 and Beriev Be-20.
Other Russian state establishments, including the special air detachment that serves the Russian president and the government, the ministry of interior, and the defence ministry, have expressed an interest in the An-148.
Source: Flight International
