Russian Troops Receive Modernized Tu-160 Bombers

Kazan Aviation Plant has delivered two upgraded Tu-160 supersonic variable-sweep wing heavy strategic bombers to the Russian Ministry of Defense.

“The aircraft features digital inertial navigation systems, engine control systems and modern weapons. Ground tests of the bomber were carried out before being sent to the troops,” United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) said in a statement Friday.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said in November last year that modernization of the Soviet-era plane had already begun.

Moscow announced intent to make a comeback of Tu-160 plane in its upgraded Tu-160M2 variant in 2015.

In all, 16 Tu-160 Soviet-era planes are said to be covered under the modernisation program. The aircraft will be equipped with the latest airborne defense system, a modern reliable communications system with enhanced noise immunity, and a "unique weapon" that will reportedly significantly expand its combat capabilities when using conventional and nuclear weapons.

In February, UAC said that the first “deeply modernized” Tu-160M completed its maiden flight.