India is considering acquiring the TU-160 Blackjack bomber aircraft from Russia to boost its military strength. Known as the “White Swan,” this aircraft is a key component of Russia’s nuclear triad. The TU-160 is powerful enough to circle the globe in a single flight, and its extensive range, coupled with the capability to launch devastating attacks with heavy bombs, distinguishes it from other bombers worldwide. The bomber is so formidable that the United States keeps a close watch on its flights using satellite surveillance.
Reportedly, the Soviet-designed Tu-22M3 was previously proposed for the Indian Navy nearly two decades ago. However, high leasing costs and modernization expenses kept the deal from finalizing. Now, with the potential addition of the Tu-160M, a modernized, highly capable strategic bomber, Russia seeks to provide India with aircraft that could enhance its long-range strike capabilities.
Unlike the Tu-22M3, the Tu-160M is still in production under a 2018 contract that calls for 10 units to be delivered to the Russian Air Force by 2027. These upgraded models come with extensive avionics and navigation enhancements, and Tupolev, the manufacturer, claims the modernized Tu-160M is 60% more effective than its predecessor.
Key features of the TU-160
The Tupolev TU-160 bomber has a top speed of 2,220 kilometers per hour and can carry a maximum weight of 110,000 kilograms, including bombs. Its wingspan measures 56 meters. The TU-160’s first flight took place on December 16, 1981, and the Russian military currently operates 17 of these strategic bombers, which are continually being upgraded.
The TU-160 is a strategic bomber, which means it can drop large amounts of weaponry from air to ground onto to distant targets. The intent of the TU-160 bomber aircraft is to destabilise one’s enemy. So far, Russia has 11 TU 160s and has been using the Tu-160 bombers in its ongoing operation against Ukraine.
Why Russia re-deployed the TU-160
Russia had retired the TU-160 bomber from active duty in 1995, citing high operational costs that the country could not afford due to post-dissolution economic challenges. However, in 2015, Russia decided to upgrade and reintroduce the TU-160 into service in response to a declining fleet of strategic bombers.
India’s interest in TU-160
India’s interest in acquiring the TU-160 was hinted at in 2022 by the then Air Force Chief, Air Marshal Anoop Raha, during an event by the Chanakya Foundation called “Chanakya Dialogues.” In response to a question from defense analyst Bharat Karnad, Raha indicated that India was interested in Russia’s TU-160 bomber. This statement led to growing speculation about India’s potential plans to acquire the aircraft.
Why India needs TU-160
India has long been searching for a strategic bomber due to its need to manage potential conflicts on two fronts. India has border disputes with both China and Pakistan, who share a close alliance. In this scenario, India seeks a bomber capable of reaching long distances in a single flight to deliver strikes, with low maintenance and operational costs. The Russian TU-160 meets all these criteria, making it a strong candidate for India’s requirements.
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