After the construction of a new runway, the Nagurskoye Arctic airfield on Franz Josef Land can accommodate any class of aircraft, including strategic bombers. Major General Igor Churkin, Chief of Staff of the Army Air Force and Air Defense, told reporters that the airfield was put into operation last year. The length of its runway is 3,5 thousand meters. "This allows the airfield to accept all classes of aircraft," Churkin said.
Answering the question of journalists whether the airfield can accept a Tu-95 strategic bomber in that form, Churkin answered in the affirmative. He stressed that the improvement of the airfield network in the Arctic increases the possibility of using the Northern Fleet aviation. First of all, this allows you to control the airspace in the area of the Northern Sea Route, and also allows you to ensure the safety of this transport artery from the air.
Churkin also said that the use of fighter aircraft is being practiced from airfields in the Arctic. In 2021, these capabilities were tested. "First of all, we are talking about MiG-31 fighters in the framework of carrying out an experienced combat duty on air defense in the Novaya Zemlya archipelago," he explained.
According to Churkin, the complex Arctic expedition "Umka-2021"took place on Franz Josef Land two months ago under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Navy.
During the inspection, two MiG-31 fighters conducted a long flight from the Nagurskoye airfield. The aircraft passed the geographical point of the North Pole and successfully completed the training and combat mission. MiG-31s returned to the same airfield.
"It is important to note that the Northern Fleet is constantly practicing the use of operational and tactical aircraft, including fighters, from airfields in the Arctic zone of responsibility," the deputy commander stressed.
He also said that the Northern Fleet aviation periodically accompanies NATO reconnaissance aircraft. They make reconnaissance flights over the Barents Sea and near the Kola Peninsula.
Alexander Stepanov
