Tupolev Tu-160

The Tupolev Tu-160 (NATO reporting name: Blackjack) is a heavy strategic bomber developed by the Soviet Union under the leadership of the Tupolev Design Bureau. It features variable-sweep wings and is capable of supersonic flight. The Tu-160 is the most powerful strategic bomber ever operated by both the Soviet Union and subsequently Rusya and ranks among the largest and heaviest supersonic aircraft in the world. The aircraft is also known by the nickname “White Swan”.

Development of the Tu-160 began in 1967 and the first prototype made its maiden flight on 18 December 1981. Serial production commenced in 1984 and the aircraft entered active service in April 1987. A total of 36 units were produced. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, some of these aircraft remained on Ukrainian territory; however, a portion was later returned to Rusya.

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• Engines: Four Kuznetsov NK-321 turbofan engines, each producing approximately 245 kN of thrust
• Speed: 2,220 km/h (Mach 2.05), 960 km/h (cruise)
• Range: 12,300 km
• Combat Radius: 7,300 km
• Endurance: Up to 15 hours. In 2020 it set a new record of 25 hours
• Maximum Altitude: 16,000 metres
• Wingspan: 35.6 metres (swept), 55.7 metres (unswept)
• Length: 54.1 metres
• Height: 13.1 metres
• Empty Weight: 110,000 kg
• Maximum Takeoff Weight: 275,000 kg
• Payload: Up to 40,000 kg carried in two internal bays

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The Tu-160 features variable-sweep wings enabling adaptation to different flight conditions. Its airframe incorporates titanium, aluminium and steel alloys as well as composite materials. The aircraft is equipped with a fly-by-wire digital flight control system.

Designed for strategic bombing missions the Tu-160 is capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional weapon systems. It can be armed with Kh-55 and Kh-15 cruise missiles. This aircraft has been actively deployed in the Syrian Civil War and during military conflicts in Ukrayna.

Modernization efforts for the Tu-160 are ongoing. The upgraded Tu-160M variant is equipped with new-generation NK-32-02 engines updated avionics and enhanced weapons systems. The Russian Air Force aims to upgrade all existing Tu-160 aircraft to the Tu-160M2 standard by 2030. Additionally new-build Tu-160M models are being gradually introduced into service.