The project of the modernized strategic missile carrier Tu-160M "White Swan" was carried out by young specialists with the participation of invited veterans of the enterprise. This was announced by Yuri Abrosimov, General Director of PAO "Tupolev".
According to him, the bomber became a real test of the engineering and production school, which "Tupolev" successfully passed.
This is a new level of capabilities for designing and serial production of the most complex and advanced aviation complexes. This project was implemented by young specialists and workers aged 30–35 under the experienced guidance of veterans who were specially invited to the enterprise to share their experience from the Soviet period of aircraft construction.
19FortyFive noted that the modernized Tu-160M2 received new engines, a digital cockpit, and the ability to use hypersonic weapons.
The key change was the NK-32-02 engines. The developers maintained the afterburner thrust of 25 thousand kgf but reduced fuel consumption by 10%. Due to this, the combat radius of the aircraft increased by approximately 1000 km.