The first prototype of the modernized strategic missile carrier Tu-160M, developed by PJSC “Tupolev” United Aircraft Corporation (part of the state-owned conglomerate Rostec), began the program of joint state tests, which are carried out by crews of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation and the developer.
The first prototype of the modernized Tu-160M, delivered by the end of December 2022, was created within the framework of a large-scale program of modernization of long-range combat aviation systems, which is currently being carried out by Tupolev.
Russia is upgrading and enhancing the strategic nuclear deterrent capability of its airborne component, whose main asset is the Tupolev Tu-160 White Swan (Blackjack in NATO code). To this end, existing units are to be modernized with upgraded engines and updated electronics, while new serial units will be built. In both cases, the official designation is Tu-160M.
“The Tu-160 is the most important part of the Russian nuclear triad, so the modernization of combat vehicles and the resumption of production of these strategic bombers is our priority task. The upgraded missile carriers outperform their predecessors in their characteristics, received new on-board radioleectronic equipment, NK-32-02 engines and other systems. In the coming years, the production of these machines will increase,” said Sergey Chemezov, general director of Rostec State Corporation.
The new life of the White Swan
The Tu-160M is equipped with state-of-the-art armament, as well as an electronic warfare system and avionics equipment developed using the most advanced Russian technology. One of the most notable features of the modernization is the adoption of a tail-mounted radar, which will detect approaching threats from the rear hemisphere, be they anti-aircraft missiles or approaching fighters, and shoot them down using air-to-air missiles of its own. That’s right! The Tu-160M will be able to fire air-to-air missiles backwards.
Both new and upgraded Tu-160Ms feature new NK-32-02 engines. The upgraded NK-32s introduce improvements in a significant number of parts and components resulting in an appreciable reduction in fuel consumption, which in practice means that the White Swan will have even greater range.
