The modernized Tu-160M2 strategic missile carrier has received new engines, a digital cockpit, and the ability to use hypersonic weapons. Analyst Chris Osborn discussed the capabilities of the updated "White Swan" in an article for 19FortyFive.
The main change was the NK-32-02 engines. Developers maintained the afterburner thrust at 25,000 kgf but reduced fuel consumption by approximately 10%. This increased the aircraft's combat radius by about 1000 km.
The equipment inside the aircraft has significantly changed. Instead of analog instruments, the crew received a "glass cockpit" with digital displays and a modern flight control system. The navigation complex will continue to operate even under active electronic warfare conditions.
The integration of air-launched hypersonic missiles will allow the Tu-160M to threaten previously unreachable targets.
Earlier, it became known that a new missile, "Izdelie 30," was developed for the Tu-160M. It is the result of the Kh-101 modernization.
The munition has a wingspan of about 3 m, a range of at least 1500 km, and a warhead of about 800 kg. The missile's navigation system includes the jamming-resistant satellite signal receiver "Kometa-M12."