The National Interest called the new-built Tu-160M a temporary option
On January 12, the first strategic missile carrier Tu-160M of the new construction made its debut flight. In the United States, the resumption of production of missile carriers was assessed. The aircraft, developed during the Cold War, may become a temporary option before the start of production of a promising long-range aviation complex (PAK-DA), writes The National Interest.
The newly built aircraft received upgraded navigation, aircraft control and weapons systems. The publication stressed that the Tu-160M also received an upgraded version of the NK-32 engines, which are considered the most powerful power units of combat aircraft.
The publication notes that the upgraded missile carrier has retained the Cold War design. "Until Russia can fix the problems with the PAK DA design, the new and improved Tu-160M will serve as a temporary bomber," writes The National Interest.
Earlier in the publication The Drive suggested that the new Tu-160M will expand Russian capabilities. The aircraft can receive new missile weapons.
In December, the first deputy chairman of the Board of the Military-Industrial Commission (MIC) of Russia Andrey Yelchaninov said that the PAK DA will enter service in the period from 2024 to 2033.
