Has Iran started an air train to transfer advanced weapons to Iran on the eve of the expected Iranian attack on Israel, just like it provided during the Yom Kippur War in 1973 to Arab countries that were at war with Israel?

Iranian media recently announced that a Russian Il-76TD aircraft belonging to Gelix Airlines landed at Tehran Airport on August 2.

Iran Observer claimed on website X that this airline specializes in transporting weapons. These claims have not been independently verified.

The IL-76TD cargo plane, with a maximum cargo capacity of about 50 tons [50,000 kg], can carry a wide variety of weapons and military equipment. 

This includes armored vehicles such as BMP infantry fighting vehicles, armored BTR and even light tanks such as the T-72. It can also transport artillery pieces, such as howitzers and multiple rocket launchers.

In addition to weapons and heavy vehicles, the IL-76TD is equipped to transport smaller specialized equipment. This ranges from anti-aircraft missile systems such as the S-300 or S-400 to radar systems and various electronic warfare means. 

In addition, the IL-76TD can also transport troops and their equipment, accommodating up to 140 paratroopers or 126 armed soldiers. This versatility makes it a valuable asset for a variety of military operations, from rapidly deploying forces to providing logistical support in conflict zones.

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