The Tu-22M3, an upgraded version of the Russian hypersonic bomber, is a new generation of modern aircraft inside the classic roof. According to the manufacturer, this aircraft has a larger speed, range and is equipped with hypersonic missiles.
"This is a completely new aircraft inside, with completely new systems, completely new capabilities, and a power and threat to potential enemy," RT quoted United Aircraft Corporation director Yuri Slyusar as saying to reporters on August 16 at the factory in Kazan City, where the first Tu-22M3M aircraft are in the process of being assembled.
The Tu-23M3M is designed to attack targets at sea and on land at a distance of up to 2,200km, using bombs and guided missiles. The new version of the aircraft has a more comfortable cockpit, flies over a longer distance and has faster speed due to a stronger engine. About 80% of electronic devices are upgraded.
The aircraft will also be equipped with new powerful weapons to suit the features. Accordingly, the plane will be equipped with the latest long-range anti-ship cruise missile Kh-32, allowing it to attack major naval groups - according to Senator Viktor Bondarev.
Mr. Bondarev, former leader of the Russian space force, said that in the future the plane will be equipped with hypersonic missiles.
Russian media quoted previous military sources as saying that the Tu-22M3M will be used to test the Kinzhal hypersonic missile (Dagger), and could later carry 4 such missiles.
The plane will have to undergo more tests, the first flight was scheduled for September. Russia is planning to modernize these 30 bombers by 2020.
The legendary Tu-22M3 was originally produced in the 1970s. It was used during the Soviet war in Afghanistan, and was limited in anti-terrorist campaigns in the North Caucus. Most recently, the plane was deployed in Syria in the fight against IS.
