In numbers Through the lens Video
NATO reporting name: Bear Η
The modernization of the strategic bombers of the Russian Air Force, is being carried out, in slow tempo though, with airplanes like the Tu-95MS and the Tu-160. Until 2015 the Air Force plans on upgrading up to 159 bombers (including the Tu-22M3). The initial work of upgrading the Tu-95MS started in 1992, with the main objective of setting up the new rocket system “Sigma”.
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In the fall of 1999, the first modernized Tu-95MSM was delivered. Along with the modernization of the aircrafts, work is being done on expanding their “service life” up to 30 years. The upgraded bombers scheduled to remain in service until 2025.
| The modernization program (to “MSM” level) concerns: |
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| The version Tu-95 MS-6 was modified to carry missiles internally and 4 more missiles on external carriers (31 aircrafts were made)and cannot be upgraded to MSM level. |
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| The Tu-95MS-16 with increased portability of missiles on external carriers up to 10 Χ-55 (Kh-55) missiles, (with the “Sprut” missile system), and also is equipped with the new Gsh-23L gun. The cockpit was redesigned to provide for better visibility to the crew. (overall 57 aircrafts were made). |
| The weapons |
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| X-101 (Kh-101 / is equivalent to the AGM-129). The maximum weight of the missile is 2.200-2.400 kg, while the weight of the warhead 400 kg. Range 5.000 up to 5.500 km, while achieving a maximum speed of up to 270 m/s. The projectile is designed with Stealth technologies as evidenced by the fairly small RCS=0.01 m2 with a firing accuracy (CEP-m.) of 12-20 m. |
| X-102 (Kh-102 / is nuclear). Technical performance: |
| Aircraft - carrier: Tu-95 MS / MSM, Tu-160. Manufacturer: MKB Raduga. Type: Cruise missile. Powerplant: One RD- 95TM-300 turbofan engine. Maximum thrust: 500 kgf. Length: 7,45 m. Wingspan: 3,00 m. Maximum launch weight: 2.200-2.400 kg. Internally carried fuel: 1/250 kg. Guidance system: opto-electronic adjustment system + TV. Maximum speed: 270 m/s. Cruising speed: 190-200 m/s. Flight profile: Initial altitude 30-70 m and a maximum ceiling of 6.000 m. |
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| Transfer missile X-101 (Kh-101) |
Three-view drawing
Technical specifications
| DESIGNER | OKB Tupolev |
| COUNTRY | Russia |
| TYPE |
Strategical bomber
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| CREW | 7 |
| POWER-PLANT | Four turboprop engines ΝΚ-12ΜP |
| Power, , e.h.p. | 4x15.000 |
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DIMENSIONS
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Length, m
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47,09 |
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Height, m
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13,20 |
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Wing span, m
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50,05 |
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Wing area, m2
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295,00 |
| WEIGHT | |
| Maximum take-off, kg | 187.000 |
| Normal take-off, kg | - |
| Empty aircraft, kg | 94.400 |
| Internal fuel, kg | 87.000 |
| Warload, kg | |
| - in standard configuration | 9.000 |
| - maximum | 20.000 |
| - with overload | 25.000 |
| PERFORMANCE | |
| Maximum speed, km/h | |
| - at high altitude | 830 |
| - in low height | 650 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 710 |
| Range, km | 10.500 |
| Combat range, km | 6.500 |
| Service ceiling, m | 12.000 |
| Maximum overload, g | - |
| ARMAMENT | 2x23 mm cannons GSh-23 or GSh-23L. Drum launcher for 6 cruise missiles Kh-55 on Tu-95MS-6 plus 4 x Kh-55 in underwings hardpoints), on Tu-95MS-16 plus 10 x Kh-55 / 8 x X-101/102 (Kh-101/102) in 4 underwings hardpoints) free fall, cluster and nuclear bombs. |