- 9 months ago
Kim Jong Un's Presidential Jet Even Shocked Donald Trump
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00:00From the magnificent Ilyushin Il-62M Chame-1 to the sleek Antonovon 148,
00:06Kim Jong-un's private jet collection screams power, prestige, and over-the-top luxury.
00:11And believe it or not, some of these sky palaces even left Donald Trump speechless.
00:15Let's take a closer look.
00:16The magnificent Ilyushin Il-62M Chame-1.
00:20Let's begin our journey with the absolute crown jewel of Kim Jong-un's fleet,
00:24the legendary Ilyushin Il-62M, affectionately known as Chame-1.
00:28This isn't just any ordinary aircraft, my friends.
00:31This is a flying testament to Soviet engineering excellence
00:34that has been transformed into what can only be described as a palace in the clouds,
00:38representing the very pinnacle of what happens when unlimited resources
00:41meet an uncompromising vision for luxury travel.
00:44The historical significance of this aircraft cannot be overstated.
00:48The Ilyushin Il-62M emerged as an improved version of the original Il-62,
00:53which was proposed in February 1960
00:55and received approval from the Soviet Council of Ministers on June 18, 1960.
01:00The Il-62M variant, introduced in 1974,
01:03featured more economical engines and increased fuel capacity,
01:07enhancing its range and efficiency to levels
01:09that were absolutely revolutionary for their time.
01:11The specifications alone are enough
01:13to make any aviation enthusiast weak at the knees.
01:16We're talking about an aircraft that cruises at 900 kilometers per h,
01:19with a maximum speed of 559 miles per hour,
01:23powered by four absolutely magnificent Soloviev D30KU turbofans,
01:27each providing an incredible 107.9 kn of thrust.
01:31The sheer power and engineering excellence represented by these engines
01:35speaks to a level of technological sophistication
01:37that continues to impress aviation experts decades after their introduction.
01:41But here's where things get really interesting.
01:43This beast has a range of around 10,000 kilometers,
01:46making it perfectly suitable for those long intercontinental flights
01:49that a world leader like Kim Jong-un requires.
01:52This incredible range capability
01:54means that virtually any destination on Earth
01:56becomes accessible without the need for refueling stops,
01:59providing the kind of strategic flexibility
02:01that is absolutely invaluable for conducting high-level diplomacy on a global scale.
02:06The physical dimensions of this aircraft are equally impressive,
02:09measuring 53.12 meters in length,
02:12with a wingspan of 43.20 meters and standing 12.35 meters tall.
02:18These specifications place it firmly in the category of aircraft
02:21that command respect and attention wherever they appear,
02:24creating the kind of presence that befits a world leader
02:27of Kim Jong-un's stature and ambitions.
02:29But the real magic happens when you step inside this flying marvel.
02:32The VIP versions used by heads of state
02:35are absolutely nothing short of spectacular.
02:37We're talking about conference rooms that would make Fortune 500 boardrooms jealous,
02:41rest areas that rival the finest hotel suites,
02:43and accommodations specifically designed for retinue and security
02:47that ensures both privacy and comfort at 39,000 feet.
02:50The level of craftsmanship and attention to detail
02:53that goes into these VIP configurations is truly extraordinary.
02:56One of the most fascinating aspects of Kim Jong-un's Il-62M
03:00is its secure communication systems that allow for global contact,
03:03essentially turning this aircraft into a flying command center
03:07that can maintain contact with Pyongyang no matter where in the world it happens to be.
03:11Imagine conducting state business while soaring through the clouds in absolute luxury.
03:15It's the kind of setup that would make even the most powerful CEOs incredibly envious.
03:19The aircraft's interior is rumored to feature the finest materials money can buy,
03:24with handcrafted furnishings, premium leather seating,
03:27and state-of-the-art entertainment systems
03:28that ensure every moment of flight is spent in absolute comfort.
03:32The attention to detail is reportedly so meticulous
03:35that every surface, every fixture, and every amenity
03:37has been carefully selected to create an atmosphere of unparalleled sophistication
03:42that reflects the supreme leader's refined tastes and high standards.
03:45What makes this aircraft even more remarkable
03:47is its incredible history and engineering achievements.
03:50The Il-62M is known for setting world records in flight speed and range,
03:55highlighting the incredible engineering prowess that went into its creation.
03:58These achievements include innovations like using the vertical tail as a fuel tank,
04:03first implemented in 1974, which increased the flight range by over 600 miles,
04:08a remarkable feat of engineering ingenuity.
04:11The Il-62M's design innovations extend far beyond mere performance specifications.
04:15Features like the sawtooth or dogtooth on the wing leading edge
04:19act as an aerodynamic fence vortex generator,
04:21ensuring stable behavior at high angles of attack and efficient long-range cruise.
04:26These kinds of sophisticated aerodynamic features demonstrate the level of engineering excellence
04:31that makes this aircraft a true masterpiece of aviation.
04:34Technology.
04:35While the Il-62M represents the pinnacle of classic Soviet luxury,
04:39Kim Jong-un's fleet also embraces the cutting edge of modern aviation technology.
04:43Antonov An-148.
04:46While this might not be exclusively a North Korean aircraft in terms of manufacturing,
04:50the way it's been utilized and potentially customized for the supreme leader's needs
04:54makes it a fascinating addition to our luxury aircraft tour
04:57that perfectly demonstrates his forward-thinking approach to presidential aviation.
05:01The An-148 represents the perfect marriage between modern aviation technology
05:06and practical luxury that speaks to Kim Jong-un's forward-thinking approach
05:10to presidential transportation.
05:12This regional jet, primarily designed for short-to-medium-haul flights,
05:16showcases a level of efficiency and versatility that makes it ideal
05:19for the kind of diplomatic missions and state visits
05:22that require both comfort and reliability in equal measure.
05:25The development story of the An-148 is particularly compelling.
05:29This regional jet was designed and manufactured by Antonov of Ukraine,
05:34with its first flight occurring on December 17, 2004,
05:37and introduction to service on June 2, 2009.
05:40The aircraft represents a significant achievement in post-Soviet aviation development,
05:45combining the best of Ukrainian engineering expertise
05:48with modern aviation technologies that meet contemporary international standards.
05:52Let's talk specifications, because the numbers here are absolutely impressive
05:56in every conceivable way.
05:57We're looking at an aircraft that can accommodate 68, 85 passengers depending on configuration,
06:03with stretched versions accommodating up to 100 passengers.
06:06But when you're talking about presidential transport,
06:08passenger capacity becomes less important than the quality of the interior configuration
06:13and the level of luxury that can be achieved within that space.
06:16The physical dimensions of the An-148 are perfectly proportioned for its intended role.
06:22Measuring 29.13 meters in length with a wingspan of 28.91 meters
06:27and standing 8.19 meters tall,
06:29this aircraft strikes the perfect balance between substantial presence and operational flexibility.
06:34The cabin dimensions of 3.15 meters in width and 2.00 meters in height
06:40provide ample space for luxurious interior configurations
06:43that can rival much larger aircraft in terms of comfort and amenities.
06:47The range capabilities of this aircraft are particularly noteworthy,
06:51up to 4,400 kilometers or 2,700 miles,
06:55with extended variants reaching an impressive 6,995 kilometers.
07:00This kind of range gives Kim Jong-un incredible flexibility in terms of destination options
07:05without requiring fuel stops,
07:07which is absolutely crucial for maintaining both security protocols and travel efficiency.
07:11The ability to reach virtually any destination in Asia non-stop,
07:14or to travel to European destinations with minimal planning,
07:17represents a significant strategic advantage.
07:20The power plant configuration showcases the sophisticated engineering
07:23that makes this aircraft so appealing.
07:25Two Progress D-436-148 turbofans,
07:30each providing 14,000-15,100 lbf of thrust,
07:34are known for their high fuel efficiency and reliable performance.
07:37These engines represent some of the most advanced propulsion technology available for regional aircraft,
07:42providing the perfect combination of power, efficiency and reliability
07:46that presidential transport demands.
07:48What really sets this aircraft apart, though,
07:50are the modern amenities and technological features
07:52that make it feel more like a luxury business jet than a traditional regional aircraft.
07:57The built-in entrance stairs are particularly clever,
08:00allowing boarding without the need for ground equipment,
08:02a feature that's not just convenient,
08:04but also adds an element of security and independence
08:06that's invaluable for presidential travel.
08:09This capability means Kim Jong-un can maintain operational independence
08:13regardless of the ground support facilities available at any given airport.
08:16The technological sophistication continues with the fly-by-wire system
08:20and five LCD panels for flight and navigation,
08:23suggesting a modern advanced cockpit
08:25that represents the cutting edge of aviation technology.
08:28This isn't just about getting from point A to point B,
08:31it's about doing so with the kind of technological superiority
08:33that befits a world leader who values both innovation and reliability.
08:37Perhaps most intriguingly,
08:39Air Corio's version likely includes a business class section with eight seats,
08:43offering enhanced comfort that goes far beyond standard regional aircraft accommodations.
08:47The seating configuration of 8C, business class,
08:50and 62Y, economy class, totaling 70 seats,
08:53demonstrates careful planning to ensure that presidential travel
08:56can be conducted with appropriate levels of comfort and privacy.
08:59While specific details about the interior configuration for presidential use remain classified,
09:04one can only imagine the level of customization and luxury
09:07that has been incorporated into Kim Jong-un's personal version of this aircraft.
09:11Reports suggest that one of Air Corio's on 148 aircraft
09:15is reportedly used for government purposes,
09:17potentially including as a personal plane for Kim Jong-un.
09:20Reports from aviation enthusiasts who have had the opportunity
09:23to observe these aircraft up close,
09:26describe the interior as still looking brand new,
09:29suggesting a level of maintenance and care
09:31that speaks to the importance placed on these aircraft
09:33within North Korea's transportation infrastructure.
09:36This attention to detail and commitment to maintaining pristine conditions
09:40is exactly what you'd expect from aircraft used
09:43for the highest levels of state business.
09:45But when diplomatic missions require something beyond passenger transport,
09:48when the sheer scale of logistics demands a different approach entirely,
09:51Kim Jong-un turns to an aircraft
09:53that redefines what's possible in presidential aviation.
09:57The Ilyushin 76 TD is what happens
10:01when you take the concept of go big or go home
10:03and apply it to aviation with absolutely no compromises whatsoever.
10:07This four-engine turbofan strategic airlifter
10:10was originally conceived in the late 1960s as a military transport,
10:14but the civilian variant, the Ily76 TD,
10:17transportny dalny meaning long-range transport,
10:20represents something far more spectacular
10:22than its military origins might suggest.
10:25The development history of this magnificent aircraft
10:27is absolutely fascinating.
10:29The Ily76 prototype flew on March 25th, 1971,
10:33with the Ily76 TD entering service in 1982.
10:36This means we're looking at an aircraft design
10:38that has been refined and perfected over decades of operation,
10:42with each iteration building upon the lessons learned
10:44from countless missions
10:45in some of the world's most challenging environments.
10:48Let's talk about the sheer scale of this magnificent beast,
10:51because the numbers are absolutely staggering.
10:53We're looking at an aircraft that measures 46.59 meters in length,
10:58with a wingspan of 50.50 meters,
11:01standing 14.76 meters tall.
11:03To put this in perspective,
11:05this aircraft is larger than many of the buildings
11:07you pass by every day,
11:08and yet it can soar through the skies
11:10with the grace and power
11:11that only the finest aviation engineering can achieve.
11:14The weight specifications are equally impressive,
11:17with an empty weight of approximately 92,000 kilograms
11:20and a maximum take-off weight of 190,000 kilograms.
11:24These numbers represent the kind of massive engineering undertaking
11:27that few aircraft manufacturers have ever attempted,
11:30let alone successfully executed with the reliability and performance
11:34that the Il-76 TD has demonstrated throughout its operational history.
11:38The power plant configuration is where things get truly exciting.
11:41Four absolutely massive Soloviev D-30 KP2 turbofan engines,
11:46each producing 117.7 kn of thrust,
11:50provide the incredible power needed to lift this giant into the sky.
11:53The sound alone must be absolutely thunderous.
11:56Imagine the presence and authority
11:57that an aircraft like this commands as it approaches any airport in the world.
12:01The D-30 KP2 engines represent improved performance at higher altitudes
12:06compared to earlier variants,
12:07providing robust performance in extreme conditions
12:10that makes this aircraft invaluable for operations in challenging environments.
12:14But here's where the Il-76 TD truly shines
12:18as a presidential transport option.
12:20Its incredible payload capacity of up to 48,000 kilograms
12:23means that Kim Jong-un can literally bring anything and everything he might need
12:27for extended diplomatic missions or state visits.
12:30We're talking about the ability to transport entire motorcades,
12:34security equipment, communication systems,
12:36and all the infrastructure needed to essentially create a mobile presidential compound
12:40wherever this aircraft lands.
12:42The cargo hold dimensions are absolutely mind-boggling.
12:4520 meters in length, 3.4 meters in width, and 3.4 meters in height.
12:49This means you could literally fit multiple luxury vehicles,
12:53complete mobile offices, or even specialized equipment
12:55that other world leaders could never dream of transporting on their aircraft.
12:59It's the ultimate expression of traveling in style,
13:02taken to an entirely different level,
13:04that redefines what's possible in terms of presidential logistics.
13:07What makes this aircraft even more remarkable
13:09is its incredible versatility and self-sufficiency.
13:13The onboard crane, capable of lifting up to 10 tons,
13:15means that this aircraft can load and unload cargo completely independently
13:20without requiring any ground support equipment.
13:22Imagine arriving at any airport in the world and being completely self-sufficient.
13:26It's the kind of independence and capability
13:28that represents the ultimate in presidential transportation luxury.
13:32The aircraft's rear ramp that doubles as a hoist
13:34enables rapid cargo deployment or even airdrops if necessary,
13:38providing capabilities that extend far beyond conventional presidential transport.
13:42This kind of versatility means that Kim Jong-un's aircraft can adapt to virtually any mission.
13:47Requirement from formal diplomatic visits to emergency humanitarian operations,
13:52the IL-76 TD's ability to operate from unpaved, snow-covered, or icy runways
13:57adds another dimension to its appeal as a presidential aircraft.
14:01This means Kim Jong-un can literally land anywhere in the world,
14:04regardless of the airport infrastructure available.
14:06Whether it's a remote diplomatic meeting location or an emergency landing situation,
14:11this aircraft provides options that simply don't exist with conventional presidential jets.
14:16The aircraft's 20 low-pressure tires are specifically designed for rough field operations,
14:21making it one of the largest bush planes in the world.
14:23The range capabilities are equally impressive,
14:26approximately 4,000 kilometers with maximum payload,
14:29extending to 6,500 kilometers with reduced cargo.
14:33This gives Kim Jong-un the flexibility to reach virtually any destination in Asia without refueling,
14:39or to travel to more distant locations with careful mission planning.
14:42While the IL-76 TD handles the massive logistical challenges of presidential travel,
14:47there are times when diplomatic finesse calls for something more intimate, more classically elegant.
14:52The Antonov An-24
14:54While this aircraft might be smaller and more modest than some of the other giants we've discussed,
14:59don't let its size fool you.
15:00The An-24 is a masterpiece of practical luxury that has been serving world leaders for decades
15:05with unwavering reliability and understated elegance.
15:08The An-24 was introduced in the late 1950s and first flew on October 20th, 1959,
15:13making it a true vintage gem that has stood the test of time through sheer brilliance of design and engineering.
15:19This aircraft was built during an era when aviation manufacturers focused on creating aircraft that could literally last forever.
15:26And the An-24 is a perfect example of that philosophy in action.
15:29The fact that many of these aircraft continue to operate reliably after more than six decades
15:34speaks volumes about the quality of engineering that went into their construction.
15:38The development story of the An-24 is particularly compelling
15:41because it represents the Soviet Union's commitment to creating aircraft
15:45that could operate reliably in the harshest conditions imaginable.
15:48Designed by the Soviet Union's Antonov Design Bureau for short-to-medium-range civilian and military transport,
15:55particularly in rugged and austere environments,
15:57this aircraft was literally built to go anywhere and do anything that might be required of it.
16:01Makes this aircraft particularly special is its incredible versatility and reliability.
16:06With passenger capacity of up to 52 passengers in civilian configuration,
16:10the An-24 provides the perfect platform for more intimate diplomatic missions
16:15or shorter-range flights where the full capabilities of larger aircraft simply aren't necessary.
16:20Sometimes the most elegant solution is also the most appropriately sized solution,
16:25and the An-24 exemplifies this principle perfectly.
16:28The physical specifications of the An-24 are perfectly proportioned for its intended role.
16:33Measuring 23.53 meters in length with a wingspan of 29.20 meters and standing 8.32 meters tall,
16:42this aircraft strikes the perfect balance between substantial presence and operational practicality.
16:47The dimensions provide ample space for comfortable seating arrangements,
16:51while maintaining the agility and efficiency that make this aircraft so valuable for specialized missions.
16:56The performance specifications of the An-24 are genuinely impressive for an aircraft of its era and size.
17:02Maximum speed of 500 kilometers per h and cruise speed of 450 kilometers per h
17:08might not sound earth-shattering by today's standards,
17:10but when you consider the comfort and reliability that comes with this level of performance,
17:15it becomes clear why this aircraft has remained popular with discerning operators for so many decades.
17:20The power plant configuration showcases the reliable engineering that makes this aircraft so dependable.
17:25Two Ivchenko AI-24, a turboprop engines producing 2,820 HHP each,
17:31provide the perfect balance of power and fuel efficiency for regional operations.
17:36These engines are renowned for their durability and ease of maintenance,
17:39characteristics that are absolutely essential for aircraft operating in remote locations
17:43with limited support infrastructure.
17:45Perhaps most importantly, the An-24's range of 2,400 kilometers with maximum fuel,
17:51or 990 kilometers with maximum payload makes it absolutely perfect for regional diplomatic missions
17:57within Asia.
17:57This is the kind of aircraft that excels at connecting smaller cities and remote locations
18:03that might not have the infrastructure to support larger presidential jets,
18:07giving Kim Jong-un incredible flexibility in terms of where and how he can conduct diplomatic business.
18:12The An-24's rugged design for operations on unprepared airstrips is perhaps its most valuable feature
18:18for presidential transportation.
18:20This aircraft can literally land almost anywhere,
18:22opening up diplomatic possibilities that simply wouldn't exist with more conventional presidential aircraft.
18:28The high ground clearance, robust landing gear, and high wing configuration
18:31are specifically designed to avoid debris ingestion and handle rough field operations with confidence.
18:37Imagine being able to conduct surprise diplomatic meetings in remote locations
18:41that other world leaders couldn't even reach.
18:43It's a strategic advantage that's worth its weight in gold.
18:46This capability allows Kim Jong-un to engage in the kind of flexible, responsive diplomacy
18:51that has become his signature approach to international relations.
18:55What's particularly fascinating about the An-24 in presidential service
18:59is the potential for luxury conversions that transform this practical workhorse
19:03into something truly special.
19:04Some An-24s were fitted with luxurious interiors for Soviet officials,
19:09featuring plush seating, wood paneling, and even small galleys,
19:12though these conversions were relatively rare
19:14and made each aircraft a unique expression of personalized luxury.
19:18The global impact of the An-24 cannot be overstated.
19:21The fact that over 1,000 An-24s were built,
19:24and many are still in service in remote regions due to their incredible reliability,
19:28speaks volumes about the quality of engineering that went into these aircraft.
19:31In Kim Jong-un's fleet, the An-24 represents the perfect blend of practical capability
19:36and understated elegance that makes it invaluable for certain types of diplomatic missions
19:41where larger aircraft would be impractical or inappropriate.
19:44Fixed-wing aircraft, however impressive, can only take you so far.
19:48Sometimes presidential diplomacy requires the ultimate in operational flexibility
19:52that only rotorcraft can provide.
19:54The helicopter, duo, Mil Mi-8 and Mi-26.
19:58No discussion of Kim Jong-un's incredible aircraft collection would be complete
20:02without exploring the absolutely magnificent rotorcraft
20:05that provide him with unparalleled flexibility and capability,
20:08the legendary Mil Mi-8, and the absolutely mind-blowing Mil Mi-26.
20:12These aren't just helicopters, folks.
20:14They're flying masterpieces that represent the absolute pinnacle of rotorcraft engineering
20:18and presidential transportation capability,
20:20providing Kim Jong-un with options and capabilities that no other world leader can match.
20:25Let's start with the remarkable Mi-8, affectionately known by its NATO reporting name as the HIP.
20:30This twin-engine, medium-lift helicopter is quite literally one of the most produced helicopters in history,
20:35but that doesn't make it any less special when it's been configured for presidential service.
20:39The Mi-8 represents the perfect balance between capability, reliability,
20:43and the kind of flexibility that only rotorcraft can provide.
20:47The development history of the Mi-8 is absolutely fascinating.
20:50First flying on July 7, 1961, and entering service in 1967,
20:55this helicopter has been refined and perfected over more than six decades of operation.
21:00The fact that over 17,000 Mi-8s have been built, operating in over 50 countries,
21:04speaks to the fundamental excellence of its design and the universal appeal of its capabilities.
21:09The specifications of the Mi-8 are genuinely impressive for presidential transportation needs,
21:15with capacity for up to 24 passengers in civilian configuration
21:18and measuring 18.17 meters in length with a rotor diameter of 21.29 meters.
21:24This aircraft provides substantial interior space for luxury configurations.
21:28The helicopter is powered by two absolutely magnificent Klimov TV-3 117 MT turboshaft engines,
21:35producing 1,950 HAP each, providing the perfect platform for shorter-range presidential missions,
21:42or situations where the ability to land almost anywhere becomes crucial.
21:45What makes the Mi-8 particularly appealing for presidential use is its incredible versatility.
21:50The modular design allows configuration for transport, medevac, VIP,
21:54or even armed escort roles in a matter of hours,
21:57giving Kim Jong-un's security teams the flexibility to adapt the aircraft's capabilities
22:01to meet any mission requirements.
22:03This kind of adaptability is absolutely invaluable for a world leader
22:07who needs to be prepared for any contingency.
22:09The performance capabilities of the Mi-8 are perfectly suited for presidential missions.
22:14Maximum speed of 260 kilometers per H,
22:17cruise speed of 240 kilometers per H,
22:20and range of 450 kilometers with standard fuel extending to 950 kilometers with auxiliary tanks,
22:26provide the perfect combination of speed and endurance for regional operations.
22:30The service ceiling of 4,500 meters and hover ceiling of 1,900 meters out-of-ground effect
22:37ensure that this helicopter can operate effectively in mountainous terrain or challenging weather conditions.
22:42But here's where things get really exciting.
22:44The luxury conversions that some Mi-8s have received for VIP use are absolutely breathtaking.
22:49We're talking about lavish interiors featuring leather seats,
22:52advanced soundproofing and entertainment systems that would make any private jet owner jealous.
22:57Imagine conducting high-level diplomatic meetings while hovering over a mountain lake
23:02or landing directly at a remote summit location.
23:04It's the kind of capability that opens up entirely new possibilities for diplomatic engagement.
23:09Now let's talk about the absolute monster of Kim Jong-un's helicopter fleet,
23:13the incomparable Mil Mi-26 known as the Halo.
23:16This aircraft isn't just impressive,
23:18it's the largest and most powerful helicopter ever put into serial production,
23:22and the specifications are so incredible they almost seem like science fiction brought to life.
23:27The development story of the Mi-26 is absolutely remarkable.
23:31First flying on December 14th, 1977, and entering service in 1983,
23:36this helicopter represents the culmination of decades of rotorcraft engineering experience and innovation.
23:42The fact that it continues to hold multiple world records more than four decades after its first flight
23:47speaks to the fundamental excellence of its design and engineering.
23:51The sheer scale of the Mi-26 is absolutely mind-boggling.
23:54We're talking about a helicopter with a rotor diameter of 32.00 meters.
23:58That's larger than the wingspan of many fixed-wing aircraft.
24:02The overall length of 40.03 meters with rotors turning
24:05and height of 11.60 meters with tail rotor make this helicopter larger than many buildings,
24:11yet it can operate with precision and grace that defies belief.
24:14The payload capacity of 20,000 kilograms internal or external
24:18means that Kim Jong-un could literally transport an entire motorcade,
24:22complete security detail,
24:23and all necessary equipment for a major diplomatic event using just this one aircraft.
24:28The internal cargo hold volume of 110 cubic meters
24:31is comparable to a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft,
24:35providing unprecedented capability for helicopter operations.
24:38The engineering achievement represented by the Mi-26 is absolutely staggering.
24:43The eight-blade main rotor is a world first,
24:46providing immense lift capabilities that allow this helicopter
24:49to perform feats that seem almost impossible.
24:51The power plant consists of two Lotarev D-136 turboshaft engines
24:56producing 11,400 HHP each,
25:00representing some of the most powerful helicopter engines ever built.
25:03In fact, this helicopter holds the world record
25:05for lifting 56,768.8 kilograms to 2,000 meters in 1982.
25:12A record that still stands today
25:13and demonstrates the incredible engineering prowess
25:16that went into its creation.
25:18But it's not just about raw lifting power.
25:20The Mi-26 has also demonstrated its capabilities in real-world operations,
25:24such as recovering a U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook from Afghanistan in 2002,
25:29lifting 12,000 kilograms at 2,600 meters altitude,
25:34a feat no other helicopter could achieve.
25:36The combination of the Mi-8 and Mi-26 in Kim Jong-un's fleet
25:39provides him with rotorcraft capabilities
25:41that are absolutely unmatched by any other world leader.
25:44Whether he needs the flexibility and agility of the Mi-8
25:47for precision diplomatic missions,
25:49or the raw power and capacity of the Mi-26
25:51for major logistical operations,
25:53these helicopters ensure that he can respond to any situation
25:56with the appropriate level of capability and sophistication.
26:00The operational versatility of these helicopters cannot be overstated.
26:03The Mi-8's all-weather capability with de-icing systems
26:06and robust landing gear
26:08makes it suitable for operations
26:09in virtually any climate or weather condition.
26:12Meanwhile, the Mi-26's ability to operate above 8,000 meters
26:16makes it ideal for mountainous regions
26:18where other aircraft might struggle with altitude limitations.
26:21The strategic implications of having such capable rotorcraft
26:25in a presidential fleet are enormous.
26:27These helicopters provide Kim Jong-un
26:29with the ability to conduct surprise diplomatic visits
26:32to locations that would be completely inaccessible
26:34to conventional aircraft,
26:36creating opportunities for the kind of personal direct diplomacy
26:39that has become his signature approach
26:41to international relations.
26:43If you enjoyed watching this video,
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