Images reveal the wreckage of the world's largest cargo aircraft in Ukraine.

Following Russia's invasion of neighboring Ukraine, new images have revealed the destruction of the world's largest cargo plane, the Antonov An-225.

The aircraft, measuring 84 meters long and weighing 175 metric tons without fuel and cargo, was the world's longest and heaviest operational plane. With a maximum take-off weight of 640 tons, it was a popular choice among aviation enthusiasts who often visited airports to witness its scheduled arrivals and departures. Additionally, the aircraft served as a symbol of national pride for Ukraine.

The unique plane, which completed its first flight in 1988, was destroyed on or about Feb. 27, 2022, after Russian missiles attacked the Hostomel Airfield on the fringes of Kyiv.

The airfield was recaptured by Ukrainian forces on April 2 after a significant Russian withdrawal along the Kyiv axis. The fate of the wreckage remains uncertain.

The huge plane had six turbofan jet engines and a cruise speed of 800km/h

It was previously used to transport military vehicles

The aircraft was destroyed in its hangar at the Hostomel Airfield, near Kyiv

Russian shelling obliterated the plane

In 1988 it was used as part of the Soviet space shuttle program

The Antonov used to receive many parts from Russian suppliers

In 2014, when the supply chain became strained following Russia's annexation of Crimea, Boeing intervened.

Any aircraft currently in service has a wingspan that is smaller than the 88.4-meter wingspan of the aircraft in question.

The wrecked plane still bears the number '225' on its nose.

Tanks surrounding the aircraft following its destruction