Russia reactivates Tu‑160 bombers in major Ukraine assault

On Sunday, November 17, Russia conducted a massive attack on Ukraine using strategic Tu-160 bombers. According to Defense Express, this was the first occurrence in 550 days. Seven Tu-160 bombers and 16 Tu-95MS bombers participated in the attack, collectively launching about 80 Kh-555 and Kh-101 missiles.

The last time Russia used Tu-160s to attack Ukraine was on May 18, 2023. At that time, two of these aircraft were used, which, along with eight Tu-95MS, launched 22 Kh-101/Kh-555 missiles. Since then, the Tu-160s have been used sporadically due to the limited number of these aircraft.

In 2024, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported only two flights of Tu-160s: during the "Ocean-2024" exercises in September and in February. In total, only four flights of these bombers were recorded in 2024.

Russia is trying to conserve Tu-160 resources, as their numbers are limited. The Russian Air Force has about 15 of these aircraft, not all of which are fully operational. Some of them are being upgraded to the Tu-160M version.

During the attack on November 17, Russia used 23 strategic bombers. When fully loaded, seven Tu-160s could launch 84 missiles, while 16 Tu-95MS could launch between 96 to 128 missiles. However, only about 80 missiles were launched, suggesting that the aircraft were not fully loaded, which may indicate an attempt to conserve resources.

The supersonic Tu-160 bomber, also known as Blackjack in NATO code and "White Swan" due to its distinctive appearance, is a unique military machine with variable-geometry wings. The Tu-160s are considered the heaviest bombers of this type in the world.

Although production of these aircraft officially ended in 1994, they remain in use by the armed forces. This powerful aircraft measures about 180 feet in length, has a height of over 43 feet, and has a wingspan of 117 feet. The Tu-160 can carry a payload of 62,000 pounds and move at a maximum speed of up to 1,370 mph.