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Tu-160 Bombers

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Veteran defence journalist Sandeep Unnithan has reported that Russia has once again extended an offer to India for its heavy bomber aircraft, the Tu-22M3 and Tu-160 “White Swan.” 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.

Russia’s renewed offer includes the Tu-160M, a modernized version of the iconic Tu-160 “White Swan.” 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. Each Tu-160M, priced at around $163 million, is equipped to carry up to 12 long-range cruise missiles or short-range nuclear missiles, giving it significant reach and flexibility.

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