Russia redeploys Tu‑160 bombers in Ukraine assault after hiatus
For the first time in 550 days, Russia has used Tu-160 bombers to attack Ukraine, reports the Ukrainian portal Defense Express.
On Sunday, 17th November, Russia conducted a massive attack on Ukraine using strategic Tu-160 bombers. According to Defense Express, this was the first occurrence in 550 days. Seven Tu-160 bombers and 16 Tu-95MS bombers participated in the attack, collectively launching approximately 80 Kh-555 and Kh-101 missiles.
The last time Russia used Tu-160s to attack Ukraine was on 18th May 2023. On that occasion, two of these aircraft, together with eight Tu-95MS, launched 22 Kh-101/Kh-555 missiles. Since then, the Tu-160s have been used sporadically due to the limited availability of these machines.
In 2024, the Russian Ministry of Defence reported only two flights of Tu-160s: during the "Ocean-2024" exercises in September and in February. In total, only four flights of these bombers were recorded in 2024.
Russia is trying to conserve Tu-160 resources, which are limited in number. The Russian Air Force has about 15 of these machines, and not all of them are fully operational. Some are undergoing upgrades to the Tu-160M version.
During the attack on 17th November, Russia used 23 strategic bombers. When fully loaded, seven Tu-160s could launch 84 missiles, and 16 Tu-95MS could launch between 96 and 128. However, only about 80 missiles were launched, suggesting that the aircraft were not fully loaded, which may indicate an attempt to conserve resources.
Tu-160 bombers
The supersonic Tu-160 bomber, also known by the NATO code name Blackjack or as the "White Swan" due to its distinctive appearance, is a unique military machine with variable-geometry wings. The Tu-160s are regarded as the heaviest bombers of their type in the world.
Although production of these aircraft officially ended in 1994, they remain in use by the armed forces. This powerful aircraft measures about 55 metres in length, has a height of over 13 metres and has a wingspan of 36 metres. The Tu-160 can carry a payload of 28 tonnes and moves at a maximum speed of up to 2,205 km/h.
