TupolevTu-160 Blackjack
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The Tupolev Tu-160 "Blackjack" is a Soviet/Russian supersonic strategic bomber, officially in service since 1987, used primarily by the Soviet Union and subsequently the Russian Federation. It has seen combat in the Syrian Civil War (2015) and the 2022-2026 Russian invasion of Ukraine, functioning as a long-range cruise missile platform.
Key details regarding the operational usage of the Tu-160:
- Initial Deployment (USSR/Ukraine): Entered service in 1987 with the 184th Guards Heavy Bomber Regiment in Pryluky, Ukrainian SSR. Following the Soviet dissolution, 19 remained in Ukraine before being transferred to Russia or scrapped.
- Russian Federation Usage: Primarily based at Engels-2 Air Force Base. Used for long-range patrols, including a 2008 mission to Venezuela.
- Combat Missions:
- Syria (2015): First combat use, launching Kh-101 air-launched cruise missiles against ISIS targets.
- Ukraine (2022–Present): Used to launch cruise missiles from inside Russian airspace to evade air defenses.
- Strategic Role: Operates as a "stand-off" weapon platform, delivering missiles without entering heavily defended airspace.
It is known for its high-speed, variable-sweep wing design, and the updated Tu-160M2 variant is currently in production and service with Russia.
