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The Tu-160M2 , the latest upgraded version of the Soviet-made Tu-160 legendary aircraft, remains the backbone of the Russian strategic bomber force for many years to come.
Here are 8 photos of the newly released Tu-160M2 super bomber . Please take a look at it!
Tu-160M2 super heavy bomber.Photo source: United Aircraft Corporation
According to The Drive , Russia unveiled the new Tu-160M2 Blackjack heavy bomber last Thursday - upgraded from the legendary Tu-160M and Tu-160 versions.
Tupolev Tu-160M2 is the prototype of the new generation of the famous Tu-160 series that the first generation was built in the 1980s before the collapse of the Soviet Union. Russia currently operates 16 Tu-160s of this type as long-range cruise missiles, playing an important role in Moscow's core strategic bomber force.
' It seems that this is an improved version of the Soviet-made Tu-160 legendary aircraft, the Tu-160M2 is still a new type of bomber and just like the name itself, ' according to The newspaper. Aviationist said.
The new Tu-160M2 Blackjack heavy bomber is expected to make its first flight in 2018 and will continue to be mass-produced in 2021.
The operability of the Tu-160M2 Blackjack has not been revealed yet - but this is what we know to date:
Russia announced the new generation "White Swan" Tu-160M2 - Blackjack code name given by NATO - last Thursday.
Photo source: United Aircraft Corporation
This is an upgraded version of the legendary Tu-160M series, which joined Russian service in 2014.
Image source: REUTERS / Host Photo Agency / RIA Novosti
The first Tu-160 model entered the Soviet Union in 1987.
Photo source: AP Photo
The Tu-160 is often compared to the American B-1B Lancer.
Photo source: Staff Sgt.Bennie J. Davis III / USAF / Handout via REUTERS
The operability of the Tu-160M2 Blackjack has not been revealed yet, although more or less retaining the same frame as the old Soviet era, the Tu-160M2 is actually a new aircraft.
Photo source: United Aircraft Corporation
In 2015, the Russian media announced that the new Blackjack will bring 60% of the same overall score as the old version.
In addition, you can find a complete list of the specifications of the Tu-160 here and the amendments of the Tu-160M here.
The Tu-160M2 will be equipped with completely new execution systems and use the upgraded turbofan engine from the current NK-32 Kuznetsov engine. Modernized engines are more fuel efficient and reliable than previous engines.
Photo source: Rostec
" The new engine of the NK-32 02 series, expected to be much more fuel-efficient because the NK-32 engine previously had many problems ," Kofman said .
The original engine on the Tu-160 NK-32 - is a powerful engine, providing thrust of 55,000 lbs. Besides, the B-1B Lancer only generates about 31,000 pounds of thrust.
According to Russian media, the Tu-160M2 version is expected to be equipped with an active electronic phase array radar system. It will also have a new fire control system that further enhances the effectiveness of Kh-101 long-range cruise missiles and Kh-102 ( maximum range of 5,500km - the world's furthest ).
It will also have new electronic systems, sensors and communication devices.
Photo source: United Aircraft Corporation
The Tu-160M2 is expected to be equipped with an active electronic phase array radar system.
Photo source: United Aircraft Corporation
It may also be equipped with a new KRET defense.
Photo source: United Aircraft Corporation
New defenses can be combined with any better infrared countermeasures, solid state lasers or electromagnetic beams that fire missiles.
Moreover, the Tu-160M2 will also be equipped with a modern electronic warfare system, effectively dealing with threats coming from ground-based anti-aircraft missiles or aircraft.
The new Tu-160M2 may be used for the same type of mission as the old Tu-160M version and carries the same Kh-101 cruise missile and Kh-102 core. Both the Kh-101 and Kh-102 are designed to penetrate enemy airspace with dense defensive systems.
Photo source: United Aircraft Corporation
Russia is planning to buy about 50 new Tu-160M2 variants. Most likely, the current 16 Tu-160 will also be upgraded to the standard version.
Photo source: United Aircraft Corporation
Below is the new video of Tu-160M2 Blackjack released:
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