The Il-38N can act as a maritime patrol aircraft capable
of performing electronic reconnaissance, Serga said. The new aircraft
is equipped with the Novella system that allows it to detect targets
from up to 320 kilometers away, including radar-equipped submarines,
ships and aircraft.
The Novella system comprises a high-resolution thermal
imager and sensors for detecting magnetic anomalies, along with other
sensors that allow it to locate submarines and surface targets, as
well as to carry out scientific research, Serga said.
The Novella is a variation of the Sea Dragon system
that was installed on five Il-38s serving with the Indian navy during
the last decade.
The new Il-38N could be used to map magnetic and gravitational
charts of the Arctic Ocean.
