There are legends that the development of the An-12 was initiated by Nikita Khrushchev during a visit to the battery. He asked during the inspection of the An-8, which have analogues abroad. After learning that there is a similar aircraft with four engines, suggested that the Soviet Union must also make planes with four engines. Afterwards, Oleg Konstantinovich Antonov An-conceived future 12.Parallelno began developing the AN-10 and AN-12. For aircraft engines were selected AI-20. The first An-12 flew at Irkutsk on Dec. 16, 1957 goda.S 1959 aircraft began to be delivered to the Air Force. In the operation of its authorized takeoff weight was increased to 61, and subsequently to 64 tons. The aircraft has established itself as a very reliable machine capable of working in difficult climatic conditions, and unpretentious service. The plane was actively used for military purposes, in emergencies, for the transfer of military equipment and personnel for the landing, as well as for passenger transport. It became the engine of development impact of the Soviet Air Force. "Black Tulip" - the informal name of the AN-12, carrying the bodies of dead Soviet soldiers (Cargo 200) from Afghanistan during the Afghan War (1979-1989). Adapting to FSX.Fail published with permission.