AVD – 7206AVD – Airport Lighthouse Station APM-90M (130) (Old 1291avd)

Description:

The APM-90M (130), also known as the Aerodrome Searchlight Beacon, was a Soviet-era mobile lighting system designed to support military airfield operations during nighttime or low-visibility conditions. Mounted on the ZIL-130 truck chassis, this system played a crucial role in illuminating runways and guiding aircraft during takeoff and landing procedures.

At the heart of the APM-90M was a powerful 90 cm diameter arc searchlight, capable of emitting a focused beam visible to aircraft from distances up to 120 kilometers at altitudes ranging between 1,000 to 4,000 meters. This intense illumination was achieved through an arc lamp mechanism utilizing three carbon electrodes: a positive electrode measuring 550 mm in length and 16 mm in diameter, a negative electrode of 330 mm by 11 mm, and a third ignition electrode of 56 mm. The system operated at approximately 80 volts and 150 amperes, producing a luminous output sufficient to penetrate adverse weather conditions.

The searchlight was mounted on a rotating platform, allowing for 360-degree horizontal rotation and vertical adjustments between 30° and 85°. This flexibility enabled operators to direct the beam precisely where needed, whether for illuminating runways, marking specific terrain points, or serving as an inlet beacon to guide aircraft into the airfield area.

Power for the APM-90M was supplied by a PR-125 generator, delivering 110 volts with a capacity of up to 12 kW. This generator was integrated into the ZIL-130 truck, which was modified to accommodate the additional equipment and provide storage for spare parts and tools. The entire assembly, including the truck and searchlight system, weighed approximately 8,525 kilograms and required a crew of four operators to manage its deployment and operation .

In practice, the APM-90M was deployed in various configurations depending on operational requirements. For night landings, multiple units could be positioned along the runway to create a “light gate,” enhancing visibility and aiding pilots during approach and touchdown. Additionally, the system’s mobility allowed it to be used in forward operating bases or temporary airstrips, providing essential lighting support in diverse environments.

While primarily utilized by the Soviet military, the APM-90M saw service in other Warsaw Pact countries, including Poland and Czechoslovakia, where it was sometimes mounted on different truck chassis such as the ZIL-131 or Praga V3S. Its robust design and adaptability ensured its continued use well into the late 20th century, making it a notable example of Cold War-era military engineering.