Russia has begun state trials of the modernized version of the strategic Tu-160M missile bomber, the press division of the aircraft's manufacturer Rostec told Sputnik on Thursday.
Currently, the bomber's prototype is undergoing trials undertaken by the crew members of the design firm and the Russian Defense Ministry.
"The first experimental modernized strategic missile carrier Tu-160M, developed by PJSC Tupolev (part of the UAC Rostec), has begun a program of state joint tests. Tests are carried out by joint crews of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation and the developer," the press division of the state-run defense behemoth said in a statement.
Earlier, the aircraft successfully completed the factory tests in December 2022.
The Tu-160M comes with an array of advanced features, including:
The Tu-160M comes with an array of advanced features, including:
an ultra-modern electronic warfare system,
a state-of-the-art weapons control system having stealth features,
onboard radio-electronic equipment,
and updated avionics.
The first experimental Tu-160M came into existence following the launch of a wide-scale modernization program for long-range warplanes being operated by PJSC Tupolev, the Russian aerospace firm headquartered in Moscow.
PJSC Tupolev is the aerospace branch of Russia's state-run Rostec Corporation.
Tu-160M strategic bomber carried out its maiden flight in January 2022, giving the world the first glimpse of Russia's most powerful fighter aircraft.
However, President Vladimir Putin should be given credit for giving the go-ahead to the T-160M's program, the modern variant of Russia's last strategic bomber that entered service in 1987.
With the Russian leader calling for a speedy process, the design documentation for the aircraft was digitized, helping in saving a lot of time.
Moreover, the technology for vacuum welding of titanium products was restored, the production of airframe units was resumed, and a new cooperation chain was formed.
The Tu-160M aircraft is tipped to replace Russia's aging fleet of Soviet-era Tu-160 strategic bombers that currently forms the bulwark of the Eurasian nation's Aerospace Force.
Due to its long range, the Tu-160M is designed to dominate warplanes of the adversary as it can target deep into enemy territory powered by its ability to carry both nuclear and conventional warheads.
Due to its long range, the Tu-160M is designed to dominate warplanes of the adversary as it can target deep into enemy territory powered by its ability to carry both nuclear and conventional warheads.