Western military experts hold differing opinions regarding the Russian Tu-95 and Tu-22 strategic bomber-missile carriers. However, they agree on one thing: despite their outdated design, the aircraft continue to effectively perform their tasks, writes Bulgarian Military.
The Tu-95, known in NATO as "Bear," is often referred to as a relic of the Cold War. However, despite its status, the modernized Tu-95 plays an important role in Russia's strategic arsenal.
For example, the U.S. military has acknowledged that equipping the Tu-95 with Kh-55 air-launched cruise missiles gives it a «huge new life» in the 21st century. The range of these missiles is 2,000 miles (3,200 km), and the speed is Mach 2.8, making them difficult to intercept by modern air defense systems.
The Tu-95 is slow and vulnerable to fighters, but its ability to carry and launch cruise missiles allows it to operate effectively from a safe distance from the enemy. Given this strategic advantage, Western analysts believe that the Tu-95 will pose a significant threat for many years to come.
The Tu-22M strategic bomber is called a powerful but aging aircraft. It was developed for long-range maritime strike missions as a carrier of anti-ship missiles. The aircraft is a serious threat to enemy naval forces. However, the bomber is also vulnerable due to new air defense systems and high-speed fighters.
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