Upgraded Russian Tu-160M “Petr Deinekin” Undergoes Testing and Modernization
The upgraded Russian Tu-160M bomber “Petr Deinekin” expands the fleet to 10 units, featuring modern avionics, long-range missiles, and advanced cockpit displays.
Reviewers from the American magazine Military Watch Magazine highlighted the testing of the upgraded Russian Tu-160M strategic bomber, bearing the serial number 8–04 and named «Petr Deinekin». They noted that Russia is gradually expanding its fleet of these aircraft to ten units.
According to the magazine, the Kazan Aviation Plant is simultaneously pursuing two programs: constructing new Tu-160Ms under a previously planned production of 50 aircraft and modernizing the remaining Soviet-era Tu-160 bombers. The «Petr Deinekin» belongs to the modernized category. While it looks almost identical to its Soviet predecessor, its capabilities have been fundamentally transformed.
The Tu-160M is an upgraded version of the Soviet supersonic strategic bomber Tu-160, known as the «White Swan». The modernization program aims to enhance combat performance and extend the operational lifespan of the aircraft.
As part of the upgrade, the bomber received a fully modernized avionics suite, including new navigation systems, weapons management systems, and electronic warfare equipment. The range of deployable cruise missiles has also been expanded, incorporating new long-range munitions. The cockpit has been equipped with advanced multifunctional displays to support the crew.