The first modernized missile carrier Tu-160M ​​started state tests

The first Tu-160M ​​bomber built from scratch in the post-Soviet era, developed at the Tupolev design bureau, began joint state tests of the Ministry of Defense and the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC). About it reported in the press service of Rostec.

“Testing of the first experimental modernized strategic missile carrier is carried out by joint crews of the Russian Ministry of Defense and the developer, Tupolev PJSC (part of UAC),” the statement said.

The state corporation recalled that the Tu-160M ​​was created in the course of a large-scale modernization program for long-range combat aircraft systems. The aircraft is equipped with modern weapons, an electronic warfare system (EW), as well as avionics.

Tu-160M, built from scratch, made its first flight committed January 12, 2022 The flight took place at an altitude of 600 m and lasted about 30 minutes. Last year UAC reported on the completion of factory flight tests of the Tu-160M ​​missile carrier. During the flight, the necessary maneuvers were performed to test the stability and controllability of the combat vehicle, the performance of its aircraft systems, engines and electronics.

The program for the resumption of production of the Tu-160 in a modernized form was launched on behalf of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kazan Aviation Plant (KAZ named after S. P. Gorbunov – a branch of Tupolev JSC, which is part of the Rostec United Aircraft Corporation) upgraded two Tu-160s from the Russian Aerospace Forces into the Tu-160M ​​variant under a contract with the Ministry of Defense. In 2018, the Ministry of Defense signed a contract with UAC for the supply of ten vehicles in a more advanced form of the Tu-160M2 in the amount of 180 billion rubles.

Tu-160 form the basis of long-range aviation – one of the three parts of the triad of strategic nuclear forces. Each missile carrier is capable of carrying 12 cruise missiles, which can be equipped with nuclear warheads.