The Beriyev Taganrog Aviation Science and Technical Complex (Beriyev TANTK), based in Taganrog, Rostov region, intends to launch production of Be-200 amphibian aircrafts by the end of 2011, news agency RIA Novosti reports.

Investment into moving production facilities from Irkutsk to Taganrog is reportedly estimated at $64m.

The new-generation Be-200 aircraft is projected based on hydro- and aerodynamics scheme of the largest amphibian aircraft A-40 Albatros. The base Be-200 model is to be used for fighting forest fires; however the plane structure allows modifications of models for cargo and passenger transportations, shore zone patrol, rescue and search operations and other tasks. Be-200 can land and take off to and from land or water.