Antonov Logistics Salis is building a 24,000 m² hangar in Leipzig for its An-124s. Technical, logistical, geopolitical, and strategic analysis.
Announcement of a key hangar for the An-124 in Germany
A subsidiary of Antonov, Antonov Logistics Salis GmbH, has begun preparatory work on a new maintenance hangar dedicated to the An-124 “Ruslan” heavy transport aircraft at Leipzig/Halle Airport (Germany). The planned surface area is approximately 24,000 m², with delivery expected in 2027. This infrastructure marks a major step in the structuring of Antonov’s industrial activity outside Ukraine.
Antonov Logistics Salis GmbH
Created to support NATO cargo operations, Antonov Logistics Salis GmbH has been based in Germany since 2006. Following the massive destruction of the Ukrainian bases in Hostomel and Sviatoshyn, Leipzig/Halle Airport has become the hub for Antonov Airlines’ operations. The airport now serves as a logistics depot, maintenance center, and operational base.
A hangar with precise dimensions and technical specifications
Dimensions and construction
The gigantic 24,000 m² building adds to the site’s existing capacity, positioning Leipzig as Germany’s second largest cargo hub. According to the airport spokesperson, construction is underway and is scheduled for completion in mid-2027.
Planned functions
This hangar will bring together the inspection, maintenance, and heavy repairs of the An-124s, strengthening the technical autonomy of the German base. It will centralize maintenance operations for a fleet stationed on site since 2022, particularly after the destruction of infrastructure in Ukraine.
Implications in light of the war in Ukraine and geostrategic issues
Since the Russian invasion in 2022, Ukrainian bases have been heavily affected, prompting Antonov to transfer its aircraft, personnel, and equipment to Leipzig/Halle. The hangar is therefore not just a technical center; it is part of a strategy of industrial and diplomatic resilience.
This site is also becoming a symbol of cooperation between Ukraine and Europe, reinforcing the image of a reliable partner in the field of aeronautics, while improving interoperability with Western standards, particularly within NATO.
A strategic platform for international logistics
Leipzig/Halle, already a hub for DHL, Amazon Air, and AeroLogic, will see its role consolidated with this project. With 24-hour access for freight and vast cargo capacity (more than 1.3 million tons handled in 2024), the arrival of a dedicated An-124 hangar will make it an even more powerful logistics hub.
This will allow for more efficient operation of Ruslan aircraft on heavy flights worldwide. The savings in time, maintenance, and parts exchanges will only be reinforced.
Expected financial and industrial aspects
Sources have not yet specified the exact budget for this construction, but the scale of the project suggests a double-digit investment in millions of euros. This cost is justified by the strategic importance of centralizing heavy maintenance operations, reducing aircraft downtime, and securing supply networks.
In the longer term, the hangar could serve as a platform for potential industrial collaborations, particularly in military or humanitarian contexts, where the An-124 is often used to transport exceptional loads.
Expected medium-term consequences
1. Increased operational safety
With this infrastructure, Antonov reduces its dependence on conflict zones, securing its fleet and ensuring the continuity of its international operations.
2. Enhanced international influence
This project illustrates the continuation of Ukrainian industrial activity in Europe, strengthening ties between Ukraine and its allies.
3. Adaptation to allies’ requirements
Having a stable base in Germany brings Antonov closer to NATO standards and facilitates joint missions, particularly under the SALIS program.
4. Enhanced local industrial environment
The Leipzig region benefits from strengthened technical expertise in heavy aeronautics, with jobs and skills to boot.
A turning point in strategic air logistics
This 24,000 m² hangar is not just a building: it is a strategic asset for Antonov and for Europe as a whole. It brings together technical, industrial, logistical, and geopolitical dimensions in a single project.
Through it, Antonov is reaching a milestone: consolidating its operations in a secure, modern environment aligned with its partners. This initiative is creating the conditions for a future in which its role in heavy transport will remain strong at the heart of Europe.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.