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Russian General Discusses Bomber Capabilities

January 13, 2006 :: News

General Vladimir Mikhaylov, commander-in-chief of the Russian air force, recently discussed the capabilities of Russia’s strategic bombers with Interfax. Mikhaylov stated that Russia’s long-range aviation constitutes “the backbone of global deterrence,” specifically mentioning the Tu-95MS and Tu-160 strategic bombers and Tu-22M3 long-range bombers. Mikhaylov added that these aircraft are capable of “deterring and, if needed, countering any airspace threat regardless of where it may be coming from.”

        An excerpt:


…the Tu-95MS is a “combination of a highly efficient subsonic intercontinental-range aircraft, a nuclear long-range cruise missile and a navigation and information flight support system.” “Combat capabilities of the aircraft may be improved by upgrading each of its components,” he said, noting that the “Tu-160 was a follow-on of the Tu-95MS.”

“The aircraft is unique in its capability of carrying out subsonic, supersonic and low-level flights. This combination increases flexibility, adaptability, and combat stability in a nuclear environment. The modernization prospects of the aircraft envision it being able to employ conventional weapons, including precision-guided munitions (PGM). Its avionics and standard armament will also be upgraded,” he said.

Mikhaylov pointed out that the “air force will receive a new Tu-160 as early as February-March 2006.” On the combat capabilities of the Tu-22M3 bomber, Mikhaylov said that the aircraft was “second to none in the world.” “Its high flight characteristics allow it to engage ground and surface-based targets in a variety of ways. However, its avionics will be improved as well, and the aircraft will be armed with air-to-surface guided bombs and PGMs,” Mikhaylov said.
 (Article)

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