| The Tupolev Tu-160 (Russian: Туполев Ту-160, NATO reporting name: Blackjack) is a supersonic, variable-geometry heavy bomber designed by the Soviet Union. It is similar in appearance to the American B-1 Lancer but is an entirely different class of aircraft, being a standoff missile platform. Tu-160 is also significantly larger and faster than the B-1B with a greater combat range and payload capacity. It is both the largest variable-wing and the largest jet-powered combat aircraft ever built. Although several civil and military transport aircraft are bigger, the Tu-160 has the greatest total thrust, and the heaviest takeoff weight of any combat aircraft, and the highest top speed as well as one of the largest payloads of any current heavy bomber. Pilots of the Tu-160 call it the White Swan, due to its maneuverability and anti-flash white finish.[1] Entering service in 1987 with the 184 Guards Bomber Regiment, based at Priluki, Soviet Union, the Tu-160 was the last strategic bomber designed by the Soviet Union. The aircraft remains in production, with at least 16 currently in service with the Russian Air Force. Ту-160 (по кодификации НАТО: Blackjack) — российский, ранее — советский сверхзвуковой стратегический бомбардировщик-ракетоносец с изменяющейся стреловидностью крыла. Разработан в ОКБ Туполева в 1980-х годах, на вооружении с 1987 года. В составе ВВС России в настоящее время находятся 16 самолётов Ту-160. Является самым крупным в истории военной авиации сверхзвуковым ... |
